A thick blanket of dense fog enveloped Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) on Friday morning, reducing visibility to zero in several areas and severely disrupting transportation.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) in the region also deteriorated to a ‘severe’ level, registering a reading of 409.
The Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport in Delhi reported significant delays, with over 100 flights affected due to the poor visibility conditions. Passengers were advised to check with their respective airlines for updates on flight statuses. The airport issued an advisory early in the morning, warning of potential impacts on flight operations.
The dense fog also impacted road and rail traffic, causing delays and slow-moving vehicles. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert for the city, cautioning that the adverse weather conditions could affect airports, highways, and railway routes.
Residents of Delhi NCR woke up to a chilly morning with temperatures dropping and visibility reduced to near zero in many parts. The severe fog conditions are expected to persist for the next few days, according to weather forecasts.
Authorities have urged people to exercise caution while traveling and to avoid unnecessary journeys during the foggy conditions. The situation has also raised concerns about the health impacts of the severe air quality, with experts advising residents to limit outdoor activities and use air purifiers indoors.
