As fog, severe cold and rising COVID cases together put Delhi-NCR at risk, it is time to be cautious

As winter's icy hand is felt across north India, residents of Delhi-NCR face a double threat — severe cold conditions and a resurgence in COVID-19 cases, including its variant JN.1. The convergence of these two challenges demands a proactive approach from both individuals and the Government to ensure people’s wellbeing. Bone-chilling cold is not uncommon to Delhi but this year it made its presence felt rather abruptly. Besides, the respite is still days, if not weeks, away. The weather forecast brings unsettling news for the northern States, predicting dense fog and a severe cold wave persisting until midweek. This cold not only makes outdoor activities challenging but also poses serious health risks, particularly to vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions. With temperatures plummeting to unprecedented lows, it is crucial for people to take adequate precautions. Wearing layered clothing, using heaters judiciously and staying indoors during extreme weather conditions are essential steps to safeguard against the harsh weather. Apart from this, this is an accident-prone time, a foggy dilemma for those driving with almost zero visibility at times. Dense fog, a common companion of winter mornings, exacerbates the challenges posed by the cold wave. Reduced visibility on roads and highways increases the risk of accidents and traffic disruptions. Commuters are urged to exercise caution, use fog lights when driving, and strictly adhere to speed limits. Moreover, the railway and aviation sectors are impacted, leading to flight delays and cancellations. Passengers are advised to stay informed about their travel plans and make necessary adjustments.

As if fog and winter chill were not enough, we have the Covid spectre scaring us. Along with harsh weather, there is resurgence of Covid-19 cases. Delhi, in particular, has reported 24 cases of the JN.1 variant, with a total of 35 active cases in the city. This resurgence underscores the need for continued vigilance and adherence to Covid-appropriate behaviour. Individuals must not let their guard down, practising frequent hand hygiene, wearing masks and maintaining social distancing. It is essential for anyone experiencing symptoms to promptly get tested and follow isolation protocols. It goes without saying that the Government must work towards mitigating the risks associated with both the cold wave and the rising Covid cases. Adequate measures should be in place to address the health and safety concerns of the population. The Government must provide shelters for the homeless, distribute warm clothing and ensure the availability of medical facilities to address cold-related illnesses. Simultaneously, ramping up Covid testing, contact tracing and vaccination efforts is imperative to curb the spread of the virus. By working together, we can weather these storms and emerge stronger on the other side, as we did earlier.