New Delhi: The national capital was shrouded in a thick blanket of fog on Sunday as a cold spell gripped the city. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) reported a minimum temperature of 12 degrees Celsius in the national capital.

The IMD has also issued a warning of a wet spell, forecasting thunderstorms and hail later in the day.

Scenes from India Gate revealed near-zero visibility, while many sought shelter in night facilities in Safdarjung to escape the severe weather.

Vegpal Singh, a local resident, noted that night shelters were providing two meals daily along with proper bedding and blankets for those seeking refuge.

"The people who are taking refuge in the night shelters here are being provided with two-time meals and proper bed and blankets. If there are any medical treatments needed, we take them to AIIMS hospital which is nearby.." said Singh.

On January 11, light rain was witnessed in the national capital and the temperature dropped to 7.7 degrees Celsius, as per IMD.

Meanwhile, New Delhi and the National Capital Region were shrouded in thick fog. Similarly, cities like Kanpur and Gwalior also experienced dense fog.

In Kanpur, a group of elderly people was seen huddled around a bonfire. Raj Kumar, an auto driver, told ANI, "We face problems getting to work because it is so cold. Bonfires should at least be placed at the roundabouts."

Sunil Kumar Gupta, Raj Kumar's colleague, added, "There are a lot of problems arising due to the cold but the administration is not paying heed. It is still cold out there. What can we do about it? We are helpless."

According to data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the temperature in Delhi was recorded at 11 degrees Celsius on Saturday morning.

No flight diversions or cancellations were reported at Indira Gandhi International Airport. However, several trains faced delays due to the foggy conditions. (ANI)