A massive volcanic ash cloud generated by Ethiopia's Hayli Gubbi volcano - which erupted for the first time in 12,000 years on Sunday - is now making its way toward northwest India and expected to arrive by Monday night.
Flight Operations Disrupted Across Multiple States
The dense ash plume has already entered Indian airspace and is predicted to sweep across Rajasthan, Delhi-NCR, and Punjab, according to meteorological authorities. Airlines have begun proactively cancelling flights as aviation officials warn of significant operational disruptions.
Several flights have already been affected, including an IndiGo Kannur-Abu Dhabi flight that diverted to Ahmedabad to avoid the ash cloud's path. Aviation authorities anticipate further impacts throughout Monday evening and Tuesday.
IndiGo has cancelled six flights so far and stated on social media platform X: "Ash clouds are reported to be drifting towards parts of western India... Our teams are closely tracking the situation in coordination with international aviation bodies."
Aviation Authorities Issue Safety Advisories
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has issued urgent advisories to all airlines, instructing them to avoid flight levels and regions impacted by the volcanic ash. Airports expecting ash contamination have been directed to inspect runways and suspend operations if necessary.
"We are tracking the plume's route and know the areas impacted by it. We are taking detours to avoid flying there," revealed a senior official from an Indian carrier.
IMD chief Mrityunjay Mohapatra confirmed to Times of India: "The plumes of ash are moving towards northwest India at a height of 10-15km. It is expected to reach Delhi-NCR by Monday night. Aircraft moving at that height are likely to be impacted."
Potential Environmental and Health Impacts
While the primary concern remains aviation safety, meteorologists haven't ruled out potential effects on air quality in northern India. The ash cloud contains silica, rocky material, and gases like sulphur dioxide, which could potentially affect atmospheric conditions.
Met officials noted that the plume might create hazy sky conditions and possibly impact minimum temperatures, which could rise due to the cloud coverage. However, Mohapatra emphasized that it remains unclear whether the ash will significantly affect ground-level air quality, given that the plume is traveling at high altitudes of 10-15 kilometers.
The Indian Meteorological Department continues to monitor the situation closely, with aviation authorities and airlines maintaining vigilance as the volcanic ash cloud progresses across northwestern Indian states.
