Dense fog disrupts air and road traffic in north India

New Delhi/Amritsar, Jan 18 (ANI): Dense fog wreaked havoc on air and road traffic across northern India as a wave of cold weather intensified further.

Fresh snowfall in the Himalayan states saw temperatures in the national capital New Delhi dip to 5 degrees Celsius on Wednesday morning.

Foggy conditions brought road traffic to a crawl as early risers attempted to make their way to offices and schools.

For Delhiites, the poor visibility has turned crossing the roads into an arduous task.

"It is very scary while crossing the road. Due to poor visibility, the headlights of the car seem to be like the flame of a candle. Nothing is visible because of the fog and it is tough to cross the road," said Mukesh Kumar, a resident.

The fog has also caused major disruptions at airports with many flights being cancelled or delayed.

"We are not being given any information here over whether the flight is cancelled or delayed or are on time," said Gurnaab Singh, a passenger.

Similar conditions were seen in Amritsar city, where the thick fog was proving to be risky for drivers.

"There is more fog today and the temperature has also dipped with the increasing cold. The problem faced by the common man is that they are unable to make out the directions, no indications are given, the government has not provided fog lights, which can lead to accidents anywhere," said Manish Sharma, a resident.

The nippy temperatures have made it even more difficult for people traveling on scooters and motorcycles.

"It is too cold today. Our hands freeze while riding the motorcycles. Yesterday it was clear but today the fog has again come back on the roads," said Harwinder Singh, another local.

Chilly weather conditions have swept across the plains of north India for the past month.

The severe cold wave has claimed the lives of more than 165 people across the country, according to local media reports.

The Indian Meteorological Department has forecast more cold and foggy days ahead with minimum temperatures in the region expected to hover between 5 to 7 degrees Celsius. (ANI)