Northern India Shivers Under Thick Fog and Toxic Smog
Winter conditions have drastically intensified across the northern belt of the country, bringing life to a crawling pace in several states. Residents in Delhi/NCR, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan woke up this morning to a thick blanket of white haze, marking one of the season's most severe weather days so far.
Delhi Battles Smog and Low Visibility
The national capital is currently facing a double challenge of freezing temperatures and hazardous air quality. Early morning visuals from the Indira Gandhi International Airport revealed dangerously low visibility, raising concerns about potential delays in flight schedules. Travelers are advised to check their flight status before heading out.
Compounding the cold is the toxic atmosphere. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the Air Quality Index (AQI) near NH 24 spiked to 363, categorized as "very poor." Authorities have already invoked GRAP 4 measures to combat the escalating pollution levels that are choking the city.
Uttar Pradesh and Haryana Under Wrap
Thick fog has also enveloped major cities in Uttar Pradesh. In Moradabad and Lucknow, commuters faced hazy conditions that forced vehicles to move cautiously with hazard lights on. The holy cities of Ayodhya and Varanasi were not spared either, with reduced visibility slowing down morning traffic significantly.
Similarly, Karnal in Haryana saw a massive drop in visibility, disrupting daily routines and highway traffic.
Chillai Kalan Begins in Kashmir
Further north, the valley of Kashmir has entered its harshest winter period, known locally as 'Chillai Kalan.' Starting December 21, this 40-day period brings freezing temperatures and icy landscapes. Srinagar is currently gripped by a cold wave, with fog layering the city and affecting air connectivity.
Impact on Rajasthan
The cold spell has extended into Rajasthan as well. Jaipur International Airport reported drops in visibility, causing disruptions for both domestic and international flights. As the dense fog in North India persists, meteorological departments advise citizens to stay warm and drive safely.
