Large parts of Odisha experienced dense fog and severe cold conditions on Thursday morning, leading to traffic disruptions across several districts, including the twin cities of Bhubaneswar and Cuttack.
Poor visibility during the early hours significantly affected road movement, forcing commuters to slow down and exercise caution. According to ground reports, visibility levels dropped sharply in many areas, in some locations reducing sight distance to nearly 50 metres, impacting both highways and city roads.
Twin Cities and Coastal Areas Worst Affected
In Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, thick fog covered major roads and arterial routes, slowing the movement of private vehicles, buses, and two-wheelers. Traffic remained sluggish for several hours as drivers navigated through low-visibility conditions.
Similar weather conditions were reported from Puri, where foggy roads affected early-morning travel for residents and tourists alike.
Visuals from the twin cities showed roads barely visible, with traffic personnel and commuters taking extra precautions to prevent accidents. The fog also disrupted the regular operation of passenger buses, including state-run Ama buses, particularly from the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Bus Terminal in Khannagar, Cuttack.
Fog Extends to Interior and Tribal Districts
Dense fog was not limited to coastal regions. Several western and southern districts, including Sundargarh, Kandhamal, Kalahandi, and Koraput, also reported thick fog during the early morning hours.
In district headquarters such as Phulbani and parts of Koraput, roads were enveloped in mist, making it difficult for commuters to identify road edges and oncoming traffic. Vehicles were seen moving slowly as a precautionary measure.
Cold Wave Continues Across Odisha
The foggy conditions coincided with an ongoing cold wave across the state. Many areas continued to experience biting cold, with residents braving harsh temperatures during early morning hours.
Weather officials have indicated that there is no immediate relief in sight. Minimum temperatures across Odisha are expected to remain largely unchanged over the coming week. Cold nights and foggy mornings are likely to persist, especially in inland and forested regions.
Authorities have advised commuters to remain cautious while travelling during early hours and to follow road safety guidelines amid low-visibility conditions.
