North India reels under intense cold wave

People across India face the wrath of dipping mercury, as the cold wave further intensified in several parts of the country.

Dense fog and biting cold and icy winds magnified the agony of people living on the streets, as most of them gathered around bonfires to fight the chill.

In New Delhi, people were seen sitting around bonfires and drinking tea to brave the cold weather.

"It is severe cold and due to this harsh winters, we are shivering and there is difficulty in working. We are also getting less passengers. We are left with no option but find means for survival," said an auto driver, Mohamad Kadir.

Meanwhile, Himachal Pradesh was also in the grip of cold wave as snowfall in the upper regions forced people to stay indoors.

In higher altitudes, the temperature has even dropped to the sub-zero level, with some states witnessing lowest minimum temperatures.

The temperature in the entire state has plummeted by five to six degrees below from the normal. The meteorology department is expecting snowfall during next week.

People are finding it difficult to cope up with inclement weather conditions.

"It becomes difficult for us during mornings and due to snow, it gets even more difficult. The water on road freezes and there is mist on the car, during morning and night as well," said a shop-owner, Harish.