Flight operations at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport were significantly disrupted on Sunday afternoon due to massive dust storms sweeping across the city and the National Capital Region (NCR).
Between 5:00 pm and 5:30 pm, at least four incoming flights to Delhi were diverted to alternate airports because of the severe weather conditions. These included two flights originating from Jaipur and one each from Chandigarh and Amritsar, according to the latest reports.
In response to the disruptions, the Delhi Airport took to social media platform X to advise passengers to stay in touch with their respective airlines for real-time flight updates. The airport’s official post stated, “Due to inclement weather conditions in Delhi, flight operations at Delhi Airport are impacted.” It further assured that “Our on-ground teams are diligently working with all stakeholders to ensure a seamless and efficient passenger experience.” The post concluded with a reminder for passengers: “Passengers are advised to contact their respective airlines for the latest flight updates.”
The dust storms that affected Delhi and the surrounding NCR—including Noida, Greater Noida, Gurugram, Faridabad, Manesar, and Ballabhgarh—were accompanied by light rainfall and gusty winds ranging between 50 to 80 kmph.
Also Read: Flash floods, landslides kill 30 as monsoon hits NE India
The India Meteorological Department (IMD), in its weather bulletin issued around 5 pm, warned, “Dust storm followed by thunderstorm with light rainfall and lightning (50-80 Km/h gusty winds) is very likely to occur across entire Delhi, NCR during the next two hours.” The IMD also reported a thundersquall over Safdarjung area between 4:35 pm and 4:37 pm, with wind gusts reaching a maximum speed of 66 kmph.
Residents of Delhi and neighbouring cities such as Noida, Gurugram, and Faridabad shared numerous videos on social media showing the intensity of the dust storms. The footage captured strong winds causing trees to sway vigorously and dust clouds enveloping the streets, dramatically reducing visibility and causing inconvenience across the region.
The sudden onset of these weather conditions brought a noticeable change to the atmosphere, disrupting daily activities and impacting air travel, as the city continues to cope with extreme weather events.
Also Read: Delhi-NCR hit by massive dust storms; Northeast floods claim live
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