Fog affects 100 flights, 90 trains in and around Delhi
Delhiites were greeted by thick fog on the last day of 2017, which severely disrupted flight operations and train movement in the morning. All operations at the airport were suspended from 8am to 10am as visibility fell below 50m. About 100 flights were affected. Operations of as many as 90 trains were also hampered in various parts of North India.
Sky expected to remain clear later in the day
At the airport, landings and take-offs were suspended after visibility fell below the minimum requirement for flight operations. Landing resumed after 10am, while take-offs began as late as 11:30am. Subsequently, over 40 flights were diverted and 55 delayed. However, the sky "would remain clear in the day ahead", India Today quoted an official of the India Meteorological Department.
Temperature likely to dip further
Meanwhile, IANS reported at least 15 trains had been cancelled, 57 delayed and 18 rescheduled. Traffic police have asked motorists to drive with caution on highways. Yesterday, Delhi had a minimum temperature of 7.2 degrees Celsius and maximum of 22.6 degrees Celsius. This morning it was 6.4 degree Celsius. The met department says temperature is expected to fall further in the next few days.
Delhi government on the ready to deal with extreme pollution
Delhi has been struggling with extremely low air quality since some time now. The CPCB has asked authorities to remain prepared if it deteriorates around New Year again. Emergency responses might include banning construction activities and industries, steeply hiking parking charges, implementing odd-even or completely banning cars from the road. Burning of coal and firewood in the open will also not be allowed.
