Noida–Greater Noida, December 19:
A thick blanket of fog covered Noida and Greater Noida on Friday morning, severely reducing visibility and disrupting normal traffic movement across major roads and expressways. The sudden deterioration in weather conditions led to concerns over road safety, prompting the traffic police to take precautionary measures to prevent accidents during the early hours of the day.
According to officials, visibility dropped sharply in several parts of Noida and Greater Noida, particularly on arterial roads, highways and connecting stretches leading to the Yamuna Expressway and other major routes. The dense fog made it difficult for drivers to judge distances, increasing the risk of collisions, especially during peak morning hours when commuters were heading to offices, schools and industrial areas.
In view of the poor visibility, the traffic police implemented a safety strategy by moving vehicles in controlled convoys. Instead of allowing free movement, vehicles were grouped together and escorted slowly to ensure safer passage through fog-affected stretches. Police personnel were deployed at key junctions and accident-prone locations to regulate traffic and guide motorists.
Officials said the convoy system was adopted to minimise sudden braking, wrong-lane driving and high-speed movement, which often lead to serious accidents during foggy conditions. By allowing vehicles to move in batches under police supervision, traffic authorities aimed to maintain order on the roads and reduce panic among drivers.
Traffic police teams remained on high alert from the early morning hours and continued monitoring road conditions as visibility fluctuated. Flashing lights and warning signals were used at several points to alert drivers about the foggy conditions ahead. Police also advised motorists to use fog lights, maintain safe distances and avoid unnecessary overtaking.
Commuters reported slower-than-usual movement on several stretches, but acknowledged that the police measures helped prevent chaos on the roads. Many drivers appreciated the convoy system, saying it provided a sense of security in extremely low-visibility conditions where sudden obstacles or vehicles could not be easily spotted.
Authorities also appealed to motorists to exercise patience and follow traffic advisories strictly. Drivers were urged to reduce speed, avoid rash driving and keep headlights and tail lights switched on at all times. Two-wheeler riders were specifically advised to wear reflective clothing and helmets to improve visibility.
The traffic police further stated that such precautionary measures would continue as long as foggy conditions persist. With winter intensifying, dense fog is expected to affect the region intermittently over the coming days, especially during early morning and late-night hours. Officials said they are prepared to implement similar arrangements whenever required to ensure public safety.
Meanwhile, residents were advised to plan their travel keeping weather conditions in mind and allow extra time for commuting during foggy mornings. Authorities reiterated that public cooperation is crucial in preventing accidents during adverse weather and urged people to strictly adhere to traffic rules.
The police department maintained that safeguarding lives remains the top priority, and proactive steps such as convoy movement, increased deployment and continuous monitoring will remain in place to deal with fog-related challenges in Noida and Greater Noida.
