In a sudden change of plans, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled helicopter landing in West Bengal was aborted on Thursday due to adverse weather conditions. The aircraft, carrying the PM, was unable to touch down at its intended destination in Taherpur and made a safe return to Kolkata airport.
Flight Diverted Mid-Air Due to Weather
Officials confirmed that the primary reason for the diversion was poor visibility at the landing site in Taherpur, located in the Nadia district of West Bengal. The chopper, which had taken off from Kolkata, was compelled to turn back mid-journey as the weather conditions posed a risk to a safe landing. The Prime Minister and all personnel on board are safe and the aircraft landed without incident back at its point of origin.
Official Statement and Safety Protocol
An official statement cited low visibility caused by foggy conditions as the direct cause for the decision. The pilot followed standard safety protocols, which mandate avoiding landing in such scenarios to prevent any potential mishap. This incident highlights the challenges that weather can pose to VVIP travel schedules, even with advanced planning.
What Happens Next?
As this is a developing story, further details regarding the Prime Minister's revised travel itinerary and any potential rescheduling of his programs in Taherpur are awaited. Security and logistics teams are likely reassessing the situation. Such occurrences, while uncommon, are managed with pre-established contingency plans to ensure the safety of the nation's leadership at all times.