Dense fog conditions disrupted normal life across several northern states this morning, affecting road, rail, and air traffic. Visibility dropped sharply in parts of Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar, leading to delays and diversions of flights and trains. Commuters reported slow vehicular movement on highways due to poor visibility.
In the National Capital Region, the situation was compounded by deteriorating air quality. According to the Central Pollution Control Board, Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) remained in the ‘very poor’ category, with several monitoring stations recording levels close to the ‘severe’ threshold. Officials attributed the worsening air quality to stagnant weather conditions, vehicular emissions, and seasonal crop residue burning in neighbouring states.
Authorities have advised residents, especially children and the elderly, to limit outdoor exposure and use protective masks when stepping out. Health experts warned that prolonged exposure to such air quality could aggravate respiratory and cardiac ailments.
Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast that dense fog conditions are likely to persist over the next two days in northern plains, with gradual improvement expected thereafter. The IMD also cautioned that cold wave conditions may intensify in parts of Rajasthan, Haryana, and western Uttar Pradesh.
Officials said traffic advisories have been issued, and emergency services are on alert to manage disruptions caused by the prevailing weather and pollution levels.
