A thick blanket of dense fog engulfed the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) on the morning of Tuesday, December 31, 2024, severely disrupting air and rail travel. The sudden and intense drop in visibility led to significant delays for both domestic and international flights, while several trains were also reported running late, causing widespread inconvenience to passengers during the year-end travel period.
Flight Operations Thrown Into Chaos
The impact on air travel was immediate and substantial. Delhi's Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport faced the brunt of the weather conditions. According to reports, over 100 flights were delayed due to the low visibility, which at times reduced to near-zero, making it unsafe for take-offs and landings. The delays affected a wide range of airlines, leaving thousands of passengers stranded in terminals, anxiously waiting for updates on their travel schedules.
In response to the challenging conditions, major airlines and the airport authority swiftly issued travel advisories. IndiGo Airlines informed passengers about the delays caused by the fog and advised them to check their flight status before heading to the airport. Similarly, Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) urged travelers to stay in contact with their respective airlines for the most current information regarding their flights. The advisories highlighted the unpredictable nature of fog-related disruptions during the winter season in North India.
Rail Network Grinds to a Halt
The disruption was not limited to the skies. The Indian Railways network serving Delhi and surrounding areas also experienced significant setbacks. Several trains were reported running behind schedule, with delays extending for multiple hours in some cases. The fog impaired visibility for train operators, necessitating speed restrictions for safety, which cascaded into delays across the network. Commuters and long-distance travelers alike faced uncertainty, with railway stations crowded with people seeking information about revised arrival and departure times.
Broader Impact and Passenger Advisories
The foggy conditions, a typical winter phenomenon in the plains of North India, highlighted the vulnerability of transport infrastructure to weather extremes. The event on December 31 underscored the importance of real-time communication and passenger preparedness during the fog season, which typically lasts from late December to January.
Authorities reiterated standard guidelines for travelers during such episodes:
- Always check the live flight status via the airline's website or app before leaving for the airport.
- For train travel, confirm the schedule through official Indian Railways enquiry systems.
- Factor in extra travel time for the journey to the airport or railway station, as road traffic is also affected.
- Stay updated through official social media channels of airlines, airports, and railways for instant notifications.
While the fog is expected to lift as the day progresses, its impact on one of the busiest travel days of the year served as a stark reminder of nature's influence on modern logistics. Passengers are advised to remain patient and keep all necessary documents handy for a smoother experience amidst the unavoidable delays.
