New Delhi, Dec 26, 2023
Delhi’s infamous winter fog has thickened over the past three days, causing widespread disruptions at the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) warns that the dense fog is likely to persist until December 28, bringing visibility to near-zero levels and affecting daily activities across the national capital.
As of Tuesday, the IGI Airport has reported significant delays for approximately 30 flights, including both international and domestic carriers. In a statement released by airport officials, they noted, "Delhi airport is experiencing delays in both arrivals and departures due to dense fog." Additionally, 12 flights were diverted between 6 am and 12 pm, with 11 headed to Jaipur and one to Lucknow, as pilots navigated the perilous conditions.
The airport has issued advisories to passengers, indicating that while landing and take-offs continue, flights lacking CAT III compliance, an advanced anti-fog landing system, might be affected. Travelers are facing a challenging day and are advised to contact their respective airlines for the most up-to-date flight information. The advisory further noted, "Any inconvenience caused is deeply regretted," emphasizing the exceptional circumstances faced due to the weather.
This weather phenomenon is not just confined to Delhi. Dense fog has also been enveloping parts of Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Odisha, creating hazardous travel conditions and reducing visibility on roads and at airports. The IMD has forecasted that the foggy conditions will continue beyond December 28, with a dip in temperature expected from December 29 to 30, signaling a colder end to the year.
As residents and travelers grapple with the disruptions, officials are urging caution and patience. The next few days are critical as the city navigates one of its toughest weather challenges, affecting thousands of passengers and daily commuters. The situation at the IGI Airport remains fluid, with authorities closely monitoring the weather and working to minimize disruptions while ensuring the safety of all travelers.
