The national capital experienced significant disruptions in train services on Tuesday morning as at least 26 trains arrived late due to dense fog, according to Indian Railways officials.
Trains affected by the fog included services such as Bhopal-Nizamuddin, Bangalore-Nizamuddin, Bhubaneshwar-New Delhi Rajdhani, and several others. Commuters faced delays in their travel plans, with the cold weather conditions exacerbating the challenges.
As the mercury dipped to a minimum of 6 degrees Celsius in Delhi on Monday, residents took measures to combat the intense cold wave. Night shelter homes saw an increased influx of people seeking refuge from the biting cold. A caretaker at a shelter home in Dandi Park, Yamuna Bazar, mentioned the closure of shelters after floods in July but highlighted the efforts of the homeless community to provide arrangements. However, he noted the absence of provisions for food.
Meanwhile, at Anand Vihar Bus terminus, a tea seller reported a reduced footfall due to the cold weather, impacting business. Auto drivers also noted the impact on their livelihoods as trains faced delays, leading to a decline in passenger demand.
Residents across Firozshah Road expressed their struggles with the plummeting temperatures. Many were seen huddling around bonfires, seeking warmth amidst the chilly conditions. A local resident urged the government to provide assistance to those affected by the cold.
In response to the weather conditions, an auto driver mentioned, “We are lighting a bonfire to keep ourselves warm. For the last 3 to 4 days, it has been too cold. People are returning to their homes without earning a rupee.”
Dr. Mrityunjay Mohapatra, DG, IMD, warned of a further drop in night temperatures during January 5-11, potentially leading to cold wave conditions in central India and the adjoining northern plains. Day temperatures are also expected to be below normal, particularly in Madhya Pradesh, northern parts of Maharashtra, southern parts of Uttar Pradesh, and adjoining areas of Haryana and Rajasthan.
As Delhi residents brace themselves for the continuing cold spell, authorities are urged to provide support and assistance to those affected by the harsh weather conditions.
