Delhi International Airport announced on Saturday that flight operations have returned to normal as runway visibility has significantly improved.
In a statement on X, the Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) authorities said: “Runway visibility at Delhi Airport has improved, and all flights are operating normally. Passengers are requested to contact their concerned airline for updated flight information.”
Despite improved visibility at Delhi Airport, dense fog continued to envelop large parts of northern India, impacting daily life. Iconic landmarks such as the Taj Mahal in Agra were shrouded in fog, while New Delhi, the National Capital Region (NCR), and cities like Kanpur and Gwalior reported reduced visibility.
In Kanpur, locals struggled with the freezing temperatures. Raj Kumar, an auto driver, shared with ANI: “We face difficulties getting to work because of the cold. Bonfires should at least be placed at key intersections.”
Another local, Sunil Kumar Gupta, added: “The cold is causing significant problems, but the administration isn’t addressing the situation. We feel helpless.”
In Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, residents and tourists endured the biting cold of “Chillai Kalan,” the region’s 40-day harsh winter period. A tourist from Bhopal described the conditions: “We’ve been in Kashmir for the past 3-4 days. It’s extremely cold here, with temperatures around -3 degrees Celsius,” he said, pointing to a frozen Dal Lake.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported a temperature of 11°C in Delhi on Saturday morning. While no flight diversions or cancellations were reported at IGIA, foggy conditions caused delays for several trains.
The cold wave extended beyond northern India, affecting regions like Odisha’s Dhenkanal city, where residents were seen warming themselves around bonfires to combat the chill.
As cold conditions persist, authorities are urging citizens to take precautions and stay updated on weather-related developments.
