New Delhi: An amalgamation of severe climatic conditions and geopolitical tensions in the region led to pandemonium at the Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI). The sudden onset of intense rainfall and hailstorms in the country’s capital region coupled with the drone attack in the Middle East saw many over 500 flights dealyed and many flights cancelled.
Weather Conditions and Airspace Attacks: Dual Threat to Flying
The major reason for the delay was the drastic change in weather conditions in the latter part of the afternoon. The regions such as Dwarka, Palam, and Najafgarh were subjected to a heavy downpour with hail storms. This greatly affected the visibility conditions and operations on the ground. More than 500 flights had delays during the day. While there were 10 flight cancellations, at least five flights were diverted due to the severity of the weather conditions.
Along with the adverse climatic conditions, the airport’s international segment bore much stress owing to the drone attack incident in the Middle East. Several flights on Gulf routes were cancelled due to airspace concerns.
Earlier on Tuesday, Delhi airport issued a passenger advisory in response to the weather conditions.
While no colour-coded alert has been issued for Wednesday, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast thundery development towards late evening due to a prevailing western disturbance. By Thursday, the western disturbance is expected to withdraw and the mercury will start rising again, the IMD said.
Join our whatsapp group for Latest updates
Click Here for Chhattisgarh News
Click Here for Entertainment News