In this article · 7 sections
Every winter, dense fog settles over Punjab, Haryana and Delhi, especially from mid-December to late January. Visibility on NH44 and other highways can drop to a few metres, mostly at night and early morning. Yet this is also peak travel season — weddings, NRI visits and holiday flights. Whether you drive yourself or book a taxi, these tips help you travel safely.
Plan your timing
- Fog is usually worst late at night and early morning, often clearing by late morning. If your flight allows, travel in daylight.
- Add 1–2 extra hours to normal travel time for airport trips.
- Check fog and weather forecasts the evening before and on the morning of travel.
- Check flight status — fog often delays flights too, so you may have more time than you think.
If you're driving
- Slow down to a speed at which you can stop within the distance you can see.
- Use low-beam headlights and fog lamps. High beams reflect off fog and reduce visibility.
- Keep a long gap from the vehicle ahead. Sudden braking causes chain collisions in fog.
- Follow lane markings, not the tail lights of a vehicle that may be drifting.
- Avoid overtaking.
- Don't stop on the highway. If visibility becomes impossible, pull into a dhaba, petrol pump or service area and wait.
- Use hazard lights only when stopped, not while moving — moving hazards confuse other drivers.
- Keep windows clear using demister and AC; open a window slightly to hear traffic.
Check the car before you leave
- Headlights, fog lamps, tail lights and indicators working
- Wipers and washer fluid
- Reflective tape on the rear bumper (many trucks lack proper lights)
- Tyres and brakes in good condition
- Full fuel tank, phone charger, water and a warm blanket
If you're booking a taxi
- Choose an operator with drivers experienced in night and fog driving.
- Ask that the driver be well rested — fatigue plus fog is dangerous.
- Share live location with family.
- Don't pressure the driver to speed up; leave earlier instead.
Expressway or NH44?
Newer expressways have better lighting, lane markings and fewer crossings in some stretches, which helps in fog. Check current route conditions and toll costs with your operator — the faster route on a clear day isn't always the safer one in fog.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does fog usually clear?
It varies daily, but dense fog commonly thins by late morning. On some days it persists longer.
Is it safe to travel at night in fog?
It's riskier. If you must, go slowly with an experienced driver and take breaks.
Will my flight be delayed due to fog?
Fog can delay flights at Delhi, though the airport has systems for low-visibility operations. Check status before leaving.
For taxi operators
Publishing seasonal safety advice like this builds trust and helps your website rank in winter. See how to write taxi route pages or contact Joboo Web.