Dense Fog in Delhi created significant disruptions on Saturday, with the national capital experiencing its longest zero visibility spell of the season. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the unprecedented nine-hour stretch of zero visibility lasted from 6 PM to 3 AM at Palam, while Safdarjung recorded eight hours of zero visibility.
This dense fog caused widespread travel disruptions, with 81 trains delayed and 15 flights diverted. The maximum temperature was recorded at 20°C, slightly above the seasonal average, while the minimum temperature settled at 7.8°C, marginally higher than normal.
Impact of Dense Fog on Delhi’s Transportation
The dense fog severely affected Delhi’s transportation network:
- Train Services: 81 trains were delayed, causing inconvenience for passengers and disrupting schedules across major routes.
- Flight Operations: 15 flights were diverted as visibility dropped to zero, forcing airlines to reroute or delay services.
- Road Traffic: Foggy conditions created hazardous driving conditions, leading to slower traffic movement and increased risk of accidents.
Weather Conditions and Forecast
The prolonged spell of zero visibility is attributed to the dense fog and calm wind conditions prevalent in the region. The IMD reported that:
- Visibility remained near zero for an extended period, particularly in areas near Palam and Safdarjung.
- The maximum temperature was recorded at 20°C, 0.7°C above the average, while the minimum was 7.8°C, 0.9°C above normal.
The IMD predicts that similar foggy conditions may persist in the coming days, urging commuters to exercise caution, especially during early mornings and late evenings.
Comparing This Year’s Fog With Previous Seasons
This year’s nine-hour zero visibility spell marks one of the longest in recent years. Delhi frequently experiences dense fog during winter, but such prolonged episodes have been relatively rare.
- Last Year: The longest zero visibility spell was recorded at six hours.
- Seasonal Average: Typically, zero visibility conditions last for three to five hours during peak foggy days.
Authorities’ Response to Dense Fog
To minimize disruptions caused by dense fog, authorities have taken several measures:
- Railways: Steps are being taken to improve real-time updates for passengers and deploy fog-passing devices for better train navigation.
- Airports: Advanced Instrument Landing Systems (ILS) are in operation to assist pilots during low-visibility conditions.
- Traffic Police: Increased patrolling and fog lights are being used to guide vehicles safely through affected areas.
Tips for Commuters During Dense Fog
To stay safe during dense fog, commuters are advised to:
- Use fog lights and maintain a safe distance while driving.
- Check real-time updates for train and flight schedules.
- Avoid unnecessary travel during peak fog hours.
The Dense Fog in Delhi not only disrupted transportation but also highlighted the need for enhanced preparedness to handle such extreme weather conditions. As the city braces for more foggy days, commuters and authorities alike must remain vigilant to minimize the impact of reduced visibility.