Dense fog envelops Delhi; hits flight operations

The national capital on Monday woke up to a thick fog cover with minimum temperature plunging to 4 degrees Celsius in many parts. Visibility was also severely affected leading to cancellation and delay of several flight and train services. 

Amid the cold weather conditions, the Air Quality Index (AQI) too deteriorated across the national capital, falling into the 'severe' category on Sunday. 

Following this, authorities decided to reimpose restrictions as per Stage III of the revised Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in the National Capital Region (NCR) with immediate effect. The GRAP restrictions were earlier revoked on January 1, after the air quality improved. 

According to the India Meteorological Department, dense-to-very-dense fog conditions are likely in the next two days. On Sunday, the minimum temperature had dropped to 3.5 degrees Celsius -- this winter's lowest.

The cold weather also prompted many to take shelter in the government-run shelter homes to shield themselves from the freezing weather conditions. The night shelters in Delhi provide refuge to homeless people who live on the streets. The shelters offer blankets, beds, hot water, and food to those seeking shelter. Several people were seen sitting around a bonfire to keep themselves warm.

Airport advisory

The Delhi airport has issued an advisory for passengers, requesting that they contact airlines before travelling. "Due to dense fog, flight operations at Delhi Airport may be affected. Passengers are requested to contact the airline concerned for updated flight information," said the airport authority in a post on ‘X’. "Any inconvenience caused is deeply regretted," it added. 

On Sunday, 10 flights, including two international flights, were diverted and nearly 100 delayed. Some were cancelled due to low visibility. Sources said the visibility at the airport was almost zero during the period from 4 am to 10 am on Sunday. During this period, there were no flight departures and only 15 arrivals. 

Schools reopening

The schools in Delhi will resume classes on Monday after winter break. A circular by the Education Department read that "all students of government, government aided and recognised private schools shall join back classes in physical mode at their respective schools with effect from 15/01/2024(Monday)."

However, it has instructed not to hold classes before 9 a.m. or after 5 p.m. due to chilling weather conditions. "However, taking precaution in view of the prevailing foggy conditions, no school (including double shift schools) will start before 9 a.m. and have classes beyond 5 pm till further directions," the order further read.

Teaching activities from nursery to class eight in all schools of Noida and Greater Noida will remain suspended till January 16, according to an official order issued on Saturday. Timings for Class 9 to 12 will be from 10 am to 3 pm and it will continue till January 20, according to officials.