Delhi Gripped by Dense Fog, Orange Alert Issued Amid Poor Air Quality
The national capital on Monday morning was enveloped in a thick blanket of fog, with air quality deteriorating to the moderate to poor category, as per data released by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Visibility plummeted across extensive stretches of the city, prompting weather authorities to issue critical warnings for residents and travelers alike.
IMD Reports Widespread Fog and Unusual Weather Patterns
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) confirmed moderate fog conditions in multiple areas, with localities such as Dhaula Kuan, Akshardham, and Dwarka being particularly affected during the early hours. Fog persisted even after sunrise, creating hazardous conditions for morning commuters.
Weather experts attributed this phenomenon to a strong Western Disturbance influencing northern India. This system resulted in an unusual combination of dense fog, untimely showers, and cold, gusty winds, intensifying the winter chill across the region.
Orange Alert and Transport Disruptions
In response to the prevailing conditions, the IMD issued an Orange Alert for Delhi, warning of major disruptions to road traffic and aviation services. This alert followed a wet Sunday, where light to moderate showers lashed parts of Central and South Delhi, further exacerbating the cold weather.
The impact was immediately felt at major transport hubs:
- Flight Operations: Indira Gandhi International Airport experienced significant disruptions as shallow to moderate fog continued through the morning. Several flights were delayed, with officials confirming that aircraft were operating under CAT III conditions – the highest category of the Instrument Landing System used during extremely low visibility.
- Airport Advisory: In a social media post around 7 am, Delhi airport stated, "Flight operations are taking place under CAT III conditions due to dense fog, and delays in arrival and departure can be expected. Passengers are advised to contact their airlines for flight information or visit our website. Please be assured that our on-ground officers are available at all terminals to provide any assistance required."
- CAT III Limitations: Although CAT III allows aircraft to land when runway visibility is extremely low, not all aircraft and pilots are certified for such operations. This often triggers a chain of delays and cancellations, a familiar situation for Delhi during the peak winter season.
Road Commuters Face Hazardous Conditions
Road travelers also encountered dangerous situations. Motorists on key routes like the DND Flyway and Delhi–Gurgaon Expressway were advised to:
- Drive cautiously
- Use fog lights
- Maintain reduced speeds as visibility fluctuated sharply during morning hours
Airlines Issue Travel Advisories
Airlines responded proactively to the challenging weather. IndiGo cautioned passengers about possible disruptions due to low visibility over Delhi. In a statement shared on social media, the airline said it was closely monitoring weather conditions and urged travelers to regularly check flight status via its website or mobile app. IndiGo emphasized that its teams were on standby and that passenger safety remained its top priority.
Weather Outlook and Precautions
Weather officials indicated that fog and low-visibility conditions may continue intermittently as the Western Disturbance moves across the region. Commuters and travelers have been advised to:
- Allow extra buffer time for journeys
- Stay alert to updates from airlines and transport authorities
- Monitor official weather bulletins for the latest information
The combination of poor air quality, dense fog, and transport disruptions has created significant challenges for Delhi residents, highlighting the need for preparedness during winter weather extremes.
