Dense morning fog blanketed large parts of Bihar on Wednesday, sharply reducing visibility in several districts and prompting state authorities to issue safety advisories. Khagaria, Jehanabad, Begusarai and Bhagalpur were among the worst affected, with some areas reporting visibility close to zero for several hours.
Dense fog in Bihar reduces visibility to near zero
The India Meteorological Department issued an orange alert for fog and a cold day for much of the state, warning that travel could be hazardous during the early hours. Local meteorologists said radiation cooling overnight created stable conditions near the surface, enabling thick fog to form and linger through the morning.
Road users faced slow-moving traffic on several highways as drivers reduced speed to cope with poor sightlines. Railway authorities reported delays on a number of passenger services, while regional airport operators recorded a small number of flight diversions and schedule adjustments as a precautionary measure.
State and district administrations mobilised traffic police and emergency response teams to key transit points. Officials urged motorists to use fog lights, maintain safe distances and avoid sudden lane changes. School and college authorities in some districts reviewed start times and transport arrangements to limit exposure to the most hazardous hours.
Public services, including local health centres, advised residents to take extra care during the cold day conditions. The elderly and people with respiratory illnesses were reminded to stay warm and limit outdoor activity during the early morning. Authorities also recommended using reflective clothing for pedestrians and cyclists to improve visibility.
Meteorologists said the intensity of the fog was likely to ease after sunrise as daylight and a slight increase in wind speed mix the lower atmosphere. However, overnight temperatures are expected to remain low, prolonging the chill through the day. Forecasters cautioned that similar conditions may recur over the next few days, depending on wind and moisture patterns.
Transport operators advised passengers to check the latest schedules before travelling and to allow extra time for journeys. Road safety officials emphasised that the greatest risk occurs when drivers try to overtake or drive at normal speeds in low visibility; they recommended reducing speed and using hazard lights when necessary.
Local administrations said they would maintain alert levels and coordinate with meteorological services to update the public as conditions change. The state government encouraged residents to keep emergency contact numbers handy and to follow instructions from local authorities.
While fog-related disruptions can cause inconvenience, officials stressed that adherence to basic safety measures significantly reduces risk. Authorities will monitor conditions throughout the day and provide updates if the situation deteriorates or if additional warnings are required.
Key Takeaways:
- Dense fog in Bihar has reduced visibility to near zero in districts including Khagaria, Jehanabad, Begusarai and Bhagalpur.
- The meteorological department has issued an orange alert for fog and cold day conditions across the state; motorists and commuters are advised to take precautions.
- Road and rail services faced disruptions with slower traffic and reported delays; local authorities deployed teams to manage risks.
- Forecasters say fog will ease later in the day but low temperatures will persist, and public safety advisories remain in force.
