Dense fog has severely impacted northern India on the morning of January 1, 2026, with the national capital, Delhi, bearing the brunt of the weather conditions. The thick blanket of fog has not only drastically reduced visibility but has also led to a significant deterioration in air quality, creating a dual challenge for residents and travelers alike.
Flight Operations Grind to a Halt
The immediate and most visible impact of the fog has been on air travel. Major airports across several cities reported substantial disruptions. Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport in New Delhi recorded visibility as low as 600 metres in shallow fog conditions at 9:00 AM. This low visibility forced airlines to delay and cancel numerous flights, causing chaos for passengers. The ripple effect was felt in other parts of the country as well, with airports in Ranchi, Bhubaneswar, and Guwahati also experiencing similar operational challenges due to the poor weather.
In response to the situation, multiple airlines proactively issued travel advisories, urging passengers to check their flight status before heading to the airport. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) provided a glimmer of hope, predicting an improvement in conditions. They forecasted that visibility at IGI Airport would increase to around 1200 metres by 2:30 PM as fog intensity moderated from 'shallow' to 'moderate'.
Air Quality Plummets to Dangerous Levels
Parallel to the travel nightmare, the foggy conditions trapped pollutants close to the ground, triggering a sharp decline in air quality. Data from the Air Quality Early Warning Systems (EWS) indicated that the air quality index (AQI) in several areas plummeted into the 'very poor' and 'severe' categories. This poses serious health risks, especially for individuals with respiratory conditions, the elderly, and children. Authorities have likely advised vulnerable groups to limit outdoor exposure and wear protective masks when necessary.
What Lies Ahead?
While the IMD's forecast suggests a gradual improvement in visibility through the afternoon, the episode underscores the recurring winter challenges faced by North India. The combination of dense fog and severe air pollution creates a complex public health and logistical issue every year. Travelers are advised to remain in close contact with their airlines for real-time updates. Meanwhile, the persistent 'severe' air quality calls for heightened awareness and precautionary measures among the public until conditions improve.
This weather event highlights the critical need for robust infrastructure and communication systems to manage such seasonal disruptions effectively, ensuring minimal inconvenience and maximum safety for all.
