Jammu/Srinagar/New Delhi: A severe cold wave coupled with dense fog and toxic smog disrupted normal life across Jammu and Kashmir and the national capital, sharply reducing visibility and affecting air, rail and road transport.
In Jammu and Kashmir, near-zero visibility was reported at several locations in Jammu city and adjoining areas during the early morning hours. Dense fog slowed vehicular movement on national highways, forcing commuters to drive with extreme caution. Morning walks and outdoor activities were largely suspended as residents preferred to stay indoors amid harsh weather conditions.
Flight operations were hit at both Jammu and Srinagar airports due to poor visibility. At Jammu Airport, Satwari, no flights landed until around 8 am, with delays expected to continue till after noon. An Indigo flight scheduled to land at Srinagar at 8 am was also delayed due to low visibility. Airport authorities said safety remains the top priority and operations will resume smoothly once visibility improves. Passengers have been advised to check flight status with airlines before heading to airports.
In Delhi, dense fog severely affected operations at Indira Gandhi International Airport, where flights are being handled under CAT III conditions. Airport authorities issued a passenger advisory warning of possible delays and cancellations, while ground staff continued to assist travellers inside terminals. Passengers were urged to stay updated with real-time flight information.
Rail services were also impacted, with several trains running late at New Delhi Railway Station due to reduced visibility. The situation in the capital was worsened by hazardous air quality, with the Central Pollution Control Board recording an Air Quality Index of 401, classified as ‘Severe’.
Authorities across Jammu and Kashmir and Delhi have advised people to avoid unnecessary travel during foggy hours, follow health advisories and remain patient as weather-related disruptions are expected to persist in the coming days.
