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Bihar finds itself enveloped in a thick blanket of fog, with the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing a cautionary alert. In western Bihar, temperatures have dipped significantly, Gaya experiencing the coldest lows. The local government has initiated warmth measures, setting up bonfires and emergency shelters to aid those affected by the harsh winter chill.
Patna: The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), Patna, has issued a widespread warning for dense to very dense fog across Bihar, expected to persist over the coming days. The north-western and north-central regions are likely to be the worst affected with the fog predicted to spread to most districts, including the western, central, and north-eastern areas, by Dec 21.
Forecasters have also warned of potential “cold day” conditions in some north-western and north-central districts, where high humidity and thick fog may combine with low daytime temperatures.Accompanying the alert is a sharp drop of 3 to 5 degrees Celsius in maximum temperatures across western Bihar over the past 24 hours. While the rest of the state has remained relatively stable, the western region has felt the brunt of the chill.
Gaya recorded the state’s lowest minimum temperature at 12.2 degrees Celsius, with visibility dropping to just 100 metres due to the heavy fog.To mitigate the impact of the severe winter conditions, the Patna district administration has rolled out several relief measures. Bonfires have been set up at 104 identified locations, including key transit hubs such as Patna Junction, PMCH, and Rajendra Nagar Terminal.
Additionally, 26 permanent and temporary night shelters are operational, offering refuge to more than 6,700 people so far. Authorities continue to urge the public to follow safety protocols and use emergency helplines when needed.Patna residents have expressed concern over the thickening fog. “It’s so difficult to drive in this visibility. The fog is making even short trips risky,” said one commuter. A shopkeeper near Patna Junction added, “Morning customers are very few.
People avoid stepping out in this cold and fog.”Another resident said, “The bonfires and shelters are a relief for those who have no warm place at night. The administration has done well to prepare.”The district administration has suggested vigilance and preparedness, advising commuters and pedestrians to exercise caution while travelling and to remain aware of potential hazards until the fog clears.
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