Severe cold wave conditions continued to grip northern India on December 26, 2024, with major disruptions reported, particularly affecting daily life and travel. These adverse weather conditions, including dense fog, have led to challenges for travelers relying on both air and rail services.
Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport was one of the places hit hard, implementing low visibility procedures due to the dense fog. Despite these challenging conditions, flight operations for CAT III-compliant aircraft were able to proceed without disruptions. For those on flights not equipped with CAT III compliance, the outlook was less favorable. Airport authorities informed passengers via social media, stating, "While landings and take-offs continue at Delhi Airport, flights not equipped with CAT III compliance may be affected." This note has raised concerns for those who rely on air travel, with travelers urged to contact their respective airlines for flight updates.
Alongside air travel woes, rail services also suffered significantly from the weather. Reports indicated at least 18 trains scheduled to arrive in Delhi were delayed due to the fog. Notable among them were the Avadh Assam Express, Unchahar Express, and Vikramshila Express, leading to additional frustration for commuters relying on rail services. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) documented the minimum temperature reaching 7 degrees Celsius, with predictions of enduring fog during the late nights and early mornings.
The situation was exacerbated by poor air quality. The Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 372 on Thursday fell within the 'very poor' category, impacting many areas across the city. According to the Central Pollution Control Board, Anand Vihar and other areas reported similarly high AQI levels, prompting health advisories urging residents to minimize outdoor activities.
Weather patterns have evolved significantly, causing these frigid conditions. Regions such as Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan might be experiencing severe cold, with temperatures dipping as low as 4 degrees Celsius recorded at various locations. This drop has left many areas engulfed by fog, prompting warnings about cold day conditions as weather forecasts indicate more such conditions looming over the coming days.
The IMD has predicted potential light rain later, alongside continued cold conditions, advising residents to prepare adequately. With low visibility expected, the effects may remain significant throughout the week, particularly with regards to transportation. Train services have seen late arrivals, and similar issues may affect air travel as more planes navigate these tricky conditions.
Despite these adverse weather effects, authorities are working diligently to mitigate disruptions. The Delhi Airport’s advisory requested passengers to remain informed via airlines, acknowledging any resulting inconvenience with the situation. A spokesperson stated, "Passengers are requested to contact the airline concerned for updated flight information," adding, "Any inconvenience caused is deeply regretted." This reflects the broader struggle as the city copes with severe weather and its repercussions on travel.
Moving forward, the IMD has assured residents to prepare for cloudy skies and possible light rain depending on the day. With surface winds expected to remain minimal, the dense fog could persist, leaving residents and travelers on high alert.
This cold wave, though typical of Delhi's winter, has shown to be more formidable, impacting the capital, Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan. The challenges continue as authorities adapt to the ramifications of these conditions, nurturing the delicate balance between ensuring public safety and maintaining necessary services for the city.
