31 December 2025 Punjab Khabarnama Bureau : A dense layer of blinding fog has severely affected Delhi and several northern Indian states, causing visibility to plummet and major disruptions to air travel and road transport. The thick fog has been reported across Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Rajasthan, reducing visibility in some areas to less than 50 meters.
Impact on Air Travel
Flights at Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi, faced delays and cancellations as the fog reduced visibility, affecting arrivals and departures. Airlines including IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet reported multiple flight reschedules due to poor weather conditions. Passengers were advised to check flight statuses and allow extra time for travel to the airport.
Road Safety Concerns
The dense fog has led to hazardous driving conditions across highways connecting Delhi with neighboring states. Authorities have urged drivers to exercise caution, reduce speed, and use fog lights. Several minor accidents were reported, though no major casualties have been confirmed so far.
Weather Updates
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued dense fog warnings for Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and parts of Rajasthan for the next 24–48 hours. The IMD advises residents to remain cautious while commuting and expects foggy conditions to persist into the early mornings, gradually improving as the day progresses.
Public Transport Adjustments
Metro and rail services have also been affected, with some trains experiencing delays due to limited visibility on tracks. Commuters have been advised to check schedules in advance and plan for extended travel times.
Health Advisory
Prolonged exposure to fog and cold weather may exacerbate respiratory issues. Medical experts advise vulnerable groups, including the elderly and children, to avoid unnecessary outdoor activity during dense fog conditions.
Government Response
Authorities have deployed additional traffic management personnel on key routes and are closely monitoring airport operations. Safety campaigns are underway to reduce accidents and ensure smoother transit during low-visibility conditions.
Summary
Dense fog in Delhi and northern India has caused severe visibility issues, delaying flights from IndiGo and Air India, disrupting road travel, and prompting warnings from authorities for commuters and residents.