Dense Fog Engulfs North India, Disrupting Travel and Aggravating Pollution Crisis

The India Meteorological Department issued a severe fog alert for multiple states. Dense to very dense fog is forecast for night and morning hours across North India. The advisory covers Punjab, Haryana, and West Uttar Pradesh until December 22. It extends to East Uttar Pradesh and parts of Central India until December 23.

This persistent fog event coincides with dangerously poor air quality in the capital. Delhi’s AQI remained in the ‘very poor’ category, severely impacting visibility and health. The combination creates hazardous conditions for millions of residents and commuters.

Visibility Plummets, Disrupting Key Transport Hubs

Major airports and roads reported significant visibility drops. At Delhi’s Safdarjung, visibility fell to just 200 meters early Sunday. Palam airport recorded lows of 300 meters due to moderate fog.

These conditions severely disrupt road, rail, and air travel. The IMD has advised extreme caution for all commuters. Recommendations include using fog lights, avoiding high beams, and driving slowly.

Travelers must stay updated with local weather advisories. Flight delays and cancellations are anticipated. The situation demands heightened awareness from everyone outdoors.

Fog Traps Toxic Air, Intensifying Public Health Threat

The fog acts as a lid, trapping pollutants near the ground. This significantly worsens the already poor air quality. Sixteen monitoring stations in Delhi recorded ‘severe’ AQI levels.

Authorities have implemented Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan. This includes a ban on non-essential construction and certain diesel vehicles. Enhanced enforcement aims to curb pollution sources during this critical period.

The minimum temperature in Delhi was 9.4 degrees Celsius, slightly above average. Humidity reached 100%, exacerbating the damp, cold, and polluted environment. The IMD forecasts similar moderate fog conditions for Monday morning.

The ongoing dense fog event presents a dual challenge of travel chaos and health hazards. Authorities urge residents to limit outdoor exposure and follow all safety advisories closely as the severe visibility drop impacts North India.

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Which Indian states are most affected by the current fog?

The IMD alert specifically names Punjab, Haryana, and West Uttar Pradesh until December 22. East Uttar Pradesh and North Madhya Pradesh are under alert until December 23. Bihar, Jharkhand, and interior Odisha may also see dense fog until December 24.

How is the fog affecting travel in Delhi?

Visibility at key airports like Safdarjung and Palam dropped to between 200-300 meters. This level of dense fog typically leads to flight delays, train slowdowns, and dangerous road conditions. Commuters are advised to check schedules and use extreme caution.

Why does fog worsen air pollution?

Fog acts like a lid, preventing the vertical dispersion of pollutants. This traps toxic particles from vehicles and industry close to the ground. The result is a concentrated smog that significantly increases health risks.

What is the government doing about the poor air quality?

Authorities have invoked GRAP Stage IV restrictions across Delhi-NCR. These measures include banning non-essential construction and polluting diesel vehicles. Enhanced enforcement teams are working to curb local pollution sources.

What is the weather forecast for the coming days?

The IMD predicts moderate fog will continue on Monday morning in Delhi. Maximum and minimum temperatures are expected around 21 and 9 degrees Celsius respectively. Similar foggy conditions are likely across the alert zones for the next few days.