Desk Correspondent , Delhi - Travel plans were thrown into chaos today as a thick blanket of dense fog engulfed the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR), severely reducing visibility. The extreme weather conditions led to a massive disruption at the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, affecting hundreds of passengers. According to aviation officials, nearly 200 flights were delayed as pilots struggled with low visibility on the runways, while at least six flights had to be cancelled entirely. The "zero visibility" conditions reported in several areas forced airlines to issue urgent travel advisories to their customers.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a "Red Alert" for the region, noting that the fog was particularly heavy during the early morning hours. This seasonal weather phenomenon has not only impacted air travel but also slowed down rail and road transport across North India. Passengers were seen waiting for hours at airport terminals, with many expressing frustration over the lack of clear communication regarding flight timings. An airport spokesperson addressed the situation, stating, "Nearly 200 flights have been delayed and 6 cancelled as dense fog continues to impact operations at Delhi airport."

Airlines have urged travelers to check their flight status online before leaving for the airport to avoid long waiting periods. Authorities are working to manage the backlog of flights as visibility gradually improves during the day, though experts warn that similar conditions may persist throughout the week. Highlighting the severity of the weather, a senior meteorologist remarked, "This is one of the densest fog episodes of the season, and it has significantly hampered all modes of transport in the capital." As the city continues to deal with the winter chill, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of passengers amidst these challenging atmospheric conditions.