The residents of Chandigarh, Mohali, and Panchkula woke up to a severely obscured morning on Tuesday as a thick blanket of dense fog engulfed the entire Tricity region. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) responded by issuing an orange alert, warning of significant disruptions to daily life and transport.
Visibility Plummets, Disruption Widespread
The intensity of the fog was severe, with visibility dropping dramatically to as low as 25 metres in some areas. This drastic reduction made commuting extremely hazardous. The fog's persistence throughout the morning hours severely impacted road, rail, and air travel. Flight operations at the Chandigarh International Airport faced delays, while road traffic crawled as drivers navigated with extreme caution. The familiar morning hustle was replaced by a slow, cautious movement of vehicles with headlights piercing the grey veil.
IMD's Forecast and Broader Weather Pattern
The IMD's orange alert is a serious warning, indicating that the weather conditions have the capacity to disrupt travel and pose risks to public safety. According to the forecast, similar conditions of dense to very dense fog are likely to persist in the region for the next few days. This phenomenon is part of a larger cold wave and fog pattern affecting vast swathes of North India during the winter season. The meteorological conditions, including low wind speeds and high moisture levels near the ground, are ideal for the formation of such persistent fog.
Authorities Advise Caution, Public Responds
Local authorities and traffic police have advised citizens to exercise utmost caution. Key recommendations for the public include:
- Using fog lights and dippers while driving, and avoiding high beams.
- Maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles on the road.
- Checking flight and train schedules before venturing out.
- Pedestrians are urged to wear visible clothing and be extra vigilant.
The sudden dip in visibility and the chilling fog have altered daily routines, with many choosing to delay their travel until the fog lifts. The IMD continues to monitor the situation closely, and further updates are expected as the weather pattern evolves over the coming days. Citizens are advised to stay tuned to official weather bulletins for the latest information and alerts.
