Dense fog and cold conditions disrupted daily life in Delhi-NCR on the last day of the year, with low visibility slowing traffic and flight operations shifting to CAT III protocols.
Aircraft remain parked at Indira Gandhi International Airport amid dense fog, leading to flight delays and disruptions, in New Delhi. (ANI Photo)
The final morning of the year began slowly in Delhi-NCR, as dense fog and biting cold reduced visibility across large parts of the region, disrupting travel and daily routines.
From early hours, a thick layer of fog settled over the city, making driving difficult and pushing traffic into a crawl. Visibility dropped sharply in areas such as Anand Vihar, ITO, AIIMS, Ashoka Road, India Gate Circle, and along Mahatma Gandhi Marg. Fog lights stayed on, horns went off more often than usual, and long queues built up on arterial roads.
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Temperatures remained low, with the minimum across the NCR ranging between 6 and 9 degrees Celsius. Poor air quality added to the discomfort, making the morning harsher for those stepping out early.
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The fog also slowed air traffic at the Indira Gandhi International Airport. Airport authorities said flights were operating under CAT III conditions because of reduced visibility, a measure that allows landings in dense fog but often results in delays. In an advisory posted on X, the airport warned passengers of possible delays and cancellations and asked them to check directly with airlines for updates. Ground teams, it said, were assisting travellers at the terminal.
Several flights were delayed as aircraft movement remained slower than usual through the morning.
IndiGo, the country’s largest airline, issued a separate advisory, saying fog was affecting not just Delhi but multiple airports across northern India. The airline cautioned that departures and arrivals could continue to be impacted if visibility remained poor, and advised passengers to keep track of flight status and allow extra time to reach the airport.
Weather experts have cautioned that foggy conditions are likely to continue over the next few days. Meanwhile, people have been urged to remain alert while travelling, minimise unnecessary early-morning movement, and follow official advisories as winter conditions persist across the region.
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