A brutal cold wave has tightened its grip on Uttar Pradesh, plunging the state into bone-chilling temperatures and severely reducing visibility with a thick blanket of dense fog. The state capital, Lucknow, along with numerous other districts, is witnessing a significant disruption of daily life, prompting immediate government action.
Government Response and Widespread Disruptions
In response to the worsening conditions, the Yogi Adityanath government has ordered the closure of all schools and colleges up to Class 12 across the state until January 5. This pre-emptive measure aims to protect children from the harsh weather. Furthermore, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed officials to ensure the distribution of blankets, the arrangement of bonfires, and the provision of proper facilities at night shelters for the homeless and vulnerable populations.
The impact on transportation has been severe. Over 100 trains are running late, and several flights have been cancelled or delayed due to the near-zero visibility caused by the fog. Road movement in cities like Lucknow has slowed to a crawl, especially during morning and night hours.
Meteorological Warning and Affected Areas
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a cold wave warning for the next four days, indicating no immediate respite. The dense fog has enveloped approximately 30 districts, including major cities like Kanpur, Gorakhpur, and Jhansi. In several locations, visibility has dropped dramatically to between zero and ten metres, making travel extremely hazardous.
In Lucknow, residents are facing particularly harsh conditions. Icy winds and overcast skies have prevented sunlight from breaking through for most of the day, keeping temperatures dangerously low. People are forced to remain indoors or venture out only in multiple layers of winter clothing.
Public Advisories and Looking Ahead
Local authorities have issued strong advisories, urging people to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel. The persistent cold winds and fog are expected to continue affecting the region, intensifying the challenges for commuters, the elderly, and those without adequate shelter.
The situation underscores the severe impact of winter weather in North India. With the cold wave predicted to persist, the state administration's relief measures and public compliance with safety guidelines will be crucial in mitigating the effects on public health and daily infrastructure until conditions improve.
