Patna: Cold weather conditions intensified across Bihar on Sunday, with dense fog in the early morning hours severely affecting visibility in several districts, including Buxar, Begusarai, Ara and Patna. The Meteorological Department said foggy conditions are likely to persist for the next three to four days, raising concerns over road safety and public health.
In Buxar, visibility dropped to as low as 20 metres, leading to a collision between a car and a truck. Police said all occupants of the car escaped unhurt. The vehicle reportedly bore a Health Department sticker, and the occupants were returning from Varanasi at the time of the incident. Traffic movement in the area was briefly disrupted due to poor visibility caused by the fog.
The weather department has forecast dense fog during morning hours across most parts of Bihar over the coming days, with visibility likely to remain between 150 and 200 metres in many districts. Commuters have been advised to exercise caution, especially during early morning travel.
Kishanganj recorded the lowest minimum temperature in the state at 8 degrees Celsius, while Patna registered a minimum temperature of around 14 degrees Celsius. Over the past 24 hours, minimum temperatures across Bihar fluctuated between 0.5 and 1.5 degrees Celsius, indicating a gradual intensification of cold conditions.
Air quality in the state capital has also deteriorated. According to official data, the Air Quality Index in Patna ranged between 151 and 333, placing it in the ‘moderate’ to ‘very poor’ categories. Areas around Patna Airport and the Veterinary College grounds reported consistently worsening air quality levels, adding to health concerns amid the cold wave.
The Meteorological Department said cold conditions may intensify further in the coming days. While some sunshine is expected during daytime, temperatures are likely to remain near normal levels. There is currently no forecast of rainfall in the state.
The Meteorological Centre has urged residents to take necessary precautions against the cold, particularly during mornings and evenings. Special care has been advised for elderly people and children, as prolonged exposure to cold and poor air quality could pose health risks.
