New Delhi – The capital city of Delhi has been enveloped in a dense blanket of fog, causing significant disruptions to travel schedules and daily life. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has reported that this weather pattern is expected to persist for a few more days before a welcome change arrives in the form of rain and thunderstorms next week.
Travel Snarls and Delays
The thick fog has severely reduced visibility, leading to major delays and cancellations in both rail and air travel. As of recent reports, 47 trains arriving into Delhi have been delayed, causing inconvenience to thousands of passengers. The Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI), a major aviation hub, has also experienced numerous flight delays, leaving travelers stranded and schedules in disarray.
IMD’s Weather Forecast
The IMD has issued a forecast predicting that these foggy conditions will continue for the next three days. However, there’s a silver lining on the horizon. Starting January 22nd, Delhi is expected to receive rain and thunderstorms, which should help clear the fog and improve visibility.
The weather department has also provided temperature forecasts. The minimum temperature is expected to settle around 7 degrees Celsius, while the maximum temperature is likely to hover around 19 degrees Celsius.
Impact on Air Quality
While the fog has caused travel disruptions, it’s worth noting that Delhi’s air quality has seen some improvement recently. Following some rainfall, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) revoked restrictions that were previously in place under Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). The CAQM has stated that the air quality is likely to remain in the lower end of the ‘Very Poor’ category in the coming days, thanks to favorable meteorological conditions and strong wind speeds.
Awaiting the Rain
Delhi residents are eagerly awaiting the arrival of the rain, which is expected to bring much-needed respite from the persistent fog and further improve the air quality. While the current weather conditions continue to pose challenges for travelers, the forecast of upcoming rain offers hope for clearer skies and a return to normalcy.
Stay Tuned for Updates
We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available. Travelers are advised to check with their respective airlines and railway authorities for the latest information on schedules and delays. Delhiites are also encouraged to stay informed about the weather conditions and take necessary precautions.
