A dense layer of fog engulfed New Delhi on January 12, 2025, as the capital experienced a significant cold spell. According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), the minimum temperature dropped to 12°C, with warnings issued for potential thunderstorms and hail later in the day.
Near-zero visibility was reported in areas like India Gate, prompting many residents to seek shelter in night facilities across Safdarjung to escape the severe weather. Local resident Vegpal Singh stated that the night shelters are providing warm meals and essential bedding to accommodate those in need.
“The people in the night shelters are given two meals a day along with bedding and blankets. If anyone requires medical attention, we transport them to the nearby AIIMS hospital,” Singh noted.
Previously, on January 11, light rain contributed to a drop in temperature to 7.7°C, with thick fog blanketing New Delhi and other regions such as Kanpur and Gwalior. In Kanpur, elderly residents were seen gathering around bonfires for warmth, while local auto driver Raj Kumar expressed concerns about the cold impacting his ability to work, suggesting that bonfires should be placed at busy roundabouts.
Sunil Kumar Gupta, another driver, highlighted the ongoing struggles posed by the severe temperatures, stating, “There are many challenges due to the cold, but it seems the administration is unresponsive to our needs.”
As per IMD reports, the temperature in Delhi was recorded at 11°C the morning before. Despite the challenging weather conditions, no flight diversions or cancellations occurred at Indira Gandhi International Airport, though various train services faced delays attributed to the dense fog.
This significant weather event underscores the importance of staying informed and prepared as winter conditions continue to impact daily life in New Delhi.
