New Delhi: The national capital woke up to near zero-visibility on Monday, throwing flight schedules out of gear. Even Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s flight for his three-nation tour to Jordan, Ethiopia and Oman, was delayed.
The PM was scheduled to depart at 8.30 am, but eventually boarded around 9.30 am, India Today reported.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert for fog, advising residents to exercise caution. Morning temperatures fell to 12 degrees Celsius and traffic came to a crawl, with the police issuing advisories.
The Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport and several airlines also announced disruptions in flight schedules.
“Due to dense fog, flight operations may experience disruptions. We are working closely with all stakeholders to minimize inconvenience to passengers. For the latest flight updates, passengers are advised to contact their respective airlines. We sincerely regret any inconvenience caused,” an advisory issued by Delhi airport read.
PM Modi highlighted long-standing ties between India and the countries he is visiting in a pre-departure statement.
“First, I will be visiting Jordan, on the invitation of His Majesty King Abdullah II ibn Al Hussein. This historic visit will mark 75 years of establishment of diplomatic relations between our two countries,” the Prime Minister said.
He will hold detailed discussions with Jordanian King Abdullah II ibn Al Hussein and Prime Minister Jafar Hassan on several issues, including the situation in the Middle East.
PM Modi’s next stop will be Ethiopia, where he will address a joint aession of Parliament and share his vision for strengthening India-Ethiopia ties and the broader partnership with the Global South. He will also meet Ethiopian prime minister Abiy Ahmed Ali and engage with the Indian diaspora in the country.
On the final leg, PM Modi will visit the Sultanate of Oman, marking 70 years of diplomatic relations between India and Oman.
