Dense Fog Engulfs Chandigarh, Crippling Air Travel with Mass Cancellations

Imagine waking up, looking out, and seeing nothing but a thick, soupy blanket of fog. That was the stark reality for many in Chandigarh on Tuesday, and unfortunately, its impact wasn't confined to visibility on the roads. The dense fog brought operations at Chandigarh Airport pretty much ground to a halt, turning what should have been a normal travel day into a sheer logistical nightmare for hundreds, if not thousands, of passengers.

It wasn't just a minor inconvenience, mind you. We're talking about a significant disruption: a staggering 12 arrival flights and 9 departure flights were completely wiped off the schedule. Can you imagine the frustration? Many folks, bless their hearts, only found out their flights were cancelled after making the arduous journey to the airport, only to be met with news that their travel plans were simply not happening that day. It’s a scene that plays out all too often when winter truly sets in.

The cancellations spanned a host of major carriers, impacting routes across the country. Airlines like IndiGo, Vistara, Air India, Akasa Air, and even Alliance Air all had to pull flights. You had flights bound for bustling Mumbai and Delhi, serene Srinagar, techy Bengaluru, and even culturally rich Kolkata, all wiped off the schedule. Pune, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Lucknow, and Ahmedabad were also on the list of destinations that saw their connections to Chandigarh severed by the persistent mist.

This isn't some isolated incident, either. The region has been battling intense cold wave conditions, and this particular bout of dense fog has been relentless. In fact, Monday wasn't much better; operations were significantly affected then too, with numerous flights experiencing considerable delays or outright cancellations. It’s a frustrating game of wait-and-see for anyone trying to travel during this period.

To be fair, the airport authorities at AAI Chandigarh reiterated that safety is always paramount. Their operations, as you'd expect, are entirely dependent on having sufficient visibility. When the runway is obscured by such a thick fog, aircraft simply cannot land or take off safely, regardless of the inconvenience it causes. It's a non-negotiable safety measure, and while frustrating for travelers, it's absolutely necessary.

And let's not forget, it wasn't just air travel taking a hit. Even the trains, those stalwarts of reliable travel, felt the sting of the weather. The dense fog and biting cold have led to delays and schedule changes across the railway network too. It’s a stark reminder of winter's often unforgiving grip, bringing with it a whole host of challenges for transportation and daily life alike. Here’s hoping for clearer skies soon, for everyone’s sake!