Delhi chokes under fog: 20 flights cancelled, trains run late as cold bites

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu) : Severe cold and dense fog engulfed large parts of eastern and northern India on Wednesday. The capital, Delhi, was enveloped in dense fog since morning, severely reducing visibility and severely affecting air and rail traffic. A thick layer of fog was seen around the runway and terminal at the Indira Gandhi International Airport, forcing passengers to wait for hours and face problems like frequent rescheduling.

Impact on flights: Cancellations and delays too

According to flight tracking websites, at least 10 flights were cancelled and over 270 were delayed on Tuesday due to fog and low visibility. The situation worsened on Wednesday with at least 20 flights cancelled and several others departing late. Airlines have advised passengers to check flight status before departure and reach the airport with extra time.

Rail services also went off track

The effect of fog is not limited to air services only. Due to dense fog in North India, many trains are running late by hours. Crowds of passengers were seen on the platform of New Delhi Railway Station and people were seen waiting for trains. According to passengers, some trains were delayed by 3 to 6 hours, which increased the difficulties of elderly people, children and long distance passengers in the cold. According to the Meteorological Department, the effect of fog and cold may remain in the morning and evening in the coming days as well, hence passengers have been advised to be alert and take updates before travelling.