DELHI: A thick blanket of fog blanketed Indira Gandhi International Airport on New Year's Eve, leading to significant travel disruptions. With visibility dropping to near zero, 150 flights were cancelled, and about 250 flights experienced delays, throwing plans for many passengers into uncertainty.

The situation created a chaotic scene at the airport, with anxious travelers waiting in long lines, checking their phones for updates and wondering if they would reach their destinations in time for the New Year's festivities. Airport officials recommend that passengers stay informed and check with their airlines for the latest updates. "We are experiencing an unprecedented situation due to weather conditions," stated an airport spokesperson. "Ensuring safety remains our top priority."

Travel experts note that such foggy conditions are not unusual for Delhi during the winter months, but the scale of the cancellations and delays on one of the busiest travel days of the year has drawn attention. As families and friends gathered to celebrate the onset of 2024, many faced a frustrating ordeal instead, unable to embark on their planned journeys or returning home.

The chaos at the airport during this busy travel time highlights the larger issue of how weather can greatly impact air travel, especially during peak seasons. Passengers are advised to remain patient and to contact their airlines for rebooking options. Authorities are working diligently to resume normal flight operations as quickly as possible, and while the fog is expected to clear as the New Year unfolds, travelers are reminded to remain vigilant and prepared for potential delays even in the coming days.