North India is in the icy grip of a severe cold wave, leaving the region shivering under plummeting temperatures. The bone-chilling weather has disrupted daily life, with dense fog reducing visibility and making travel perilous. Meanwhile, the hill stations of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu & Kashmir have turned into snowy wonderlands, attracting tourists in droves.
Freezing Temperatures and Fog Disrupt Life
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning about the persistence of the cold wave across the plains. Several areas in Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan have recorded temperatures dipping to as low as 3°C. Delhi, the national capital, has also reported its coldest December morning this season, with the mercury settling at 5°C.
The dense fog enveloping the northern plains has compounded woes, affecting train and flight operations. Commuters have reported delays and cancellations, with visibility dropping to nearly zero in some parts. “We’ve been waiting at the station for over three hours, and there is no update,” said a distressed traveler at New Delhi Railway Station.
Snowfall Brings Cheer to Hill Stations
While the plains reel under harsh conditions, hill stations are basking in the beauty of fresh snowfall. Manali, Shimla, Gulmarg, and Mussoorie are wrapped in thick white blankets, drawing tourists eager to experience the winter magic. Hoteliers and local businesses are witnessing a surge in bookings as people flock to these destinations to escape the urban chill.
“It’s mesmerizing to see the snow-covered landscape. My kids are thrilled to play in the snow,” said a tourist visiting Manali. Social media is abuzz with stunning visuals of snow-laden trees, icy rooftops, and scenic mountain vistas, inspiring more visitors to plan impromptu trips.
Authorities on Alert
Authorities in the affected regions are on high alert, especially in areas prone to landslides and avalanches due to heavy snow. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) and local administrations are working tirelessly to clear blocked roads and ensure connectivity to remote villages.
In urban areas, municipal bodies are distributing blankets and setting up night shelters for the homeless. Hospitals are also gearing up for an increase in patients seeking treatment for cold-related ailments. Health experts are advising people, especially the elderly and children, to stay indoors and keep warm.
IMD’s Advisory
The IMD has urged people to avoid unnecessary travel during foggy mornings and nights. Drivers are being cautioned to use fog lights and maintain a safe distance on highways. The department has also predicted further temperature drops in the coming days, with another spell of snowfall expected in the hills. As North India braces for harsher conditions, the duality of the cold wave—adversity for some and joy for others—remains evident. Whether it’s the serene beauty of the hills or the challenging foggy plains, the season’s grip is unmistakable.