Dense fog wreaks havoc across state, visibility drops to zero Parveen Arora Tribune News Service Karnal, January 3 A thick blanket of dense fog enveloped the region, reducing visibility on roads and railway tracks, disrupting daily life and intensifying the cold wave. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a fog alert for the next few days, warning of persistent cold conditions and a potential dip in temperatures. The minimum temperature in several cities remained below 6°C, with cold winds adding to the chill factor. Visibility dropped between 0 and 10 metres in many parts of the state until 10 am. While the sun provided brief relief in the afternoon, the fog returned in the evening. According to the IMD, the lowest minimum temperature of 4.2°C was recorded in Narnaul. In Karnal, the minimum temperature was 9.4°C, while other districts reported slightly higher readings, including Hisar (5.7°C), Sirsa (6.2°C) and Rohtak (9.2°C). The average minimum temperature in the state saw a 1°C rise but remains 1.8°C above normal. The maximum temperatures were also affected, with Yamunanagar recording the highest at 18.9°C. Other regions reported lower figures, including Karnal at 14.6°C, Ambala at 15°C and Hisar at 15°C. The average maximum temperature in the state rose by 2.1°C but stayed 2.6°C below normal. Commuters faced significant challenges due to near-zero visibility, leading to slower traffic and delays. Minor accidents were reported, and many vehicles operated with headlights and fog lights on. Public transportation, including buses and trains, was impacted, with several trains rescheduled.

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Remembering Sardar Dyal Singh Majithia