Dense Fog Disrupts Delhi-NCR, Rain and Thunderstorms Expected

Dense fog blanketed Delhi-NCR, delaying flights and trains, while the AQI hit “severe” levels. The IMD forecasted rain and thunderstorms over the weekend. Punjab and Haryana also experienced fog-related disruptions, including accidents. Authorities reimposed GRAP Stage 3 measures to combat rising pollution as visibility remained poor in the region.

Delhi-NCR faced dense fog on Friday and Saturday, with visibility dropping to zero in several areas, causing disruptions in transportation. Over 100 flights and numerous trains, including 45 on Saturday, were delayed. While Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) reported normal operations due to low-visibility protocols, passengers were advised to confirm flight statuses with airlines.

The dense fog coincided with a sharp decline in air quality, with Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching 409, categorized as “severe,” before improving slightly to 397 by evening. The Centre reimposed Stage 3 anti-pollution measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to address worsening conditions.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported visibility at Safdarjung improving from 50 meters at midnight to 200 meters by morning. Minimum temperatures hovered around 6°C, slightly below normal, with light rain and thunderstorms predicted over the weekend.

Fog also enveloped parts of Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, where multiple accidents were reported due to low visibility. A seven-vehicle collision on the Delhi highway injured three people, while a bus-truck collision in Sultanpur claimed two lives.

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The IMD has advised caution for travelers and predicted continued foggy mornings alongside possible rainfall, which could bring some relief from the pollution.