Cyclone Montha: 35 flights cancelled at Hyderabad airport
Cyclone Montha: 35 flights cancelled at Hyderabad airport
## Hyderabad Airport Grapples with Flight Disruptions as Cyclone Montha Approaches
Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) is experiencing significant operational challenges as Cyclone Montha advances towards the region. At least 35 flights, both domestic and international, have been cancelled as a precautionary measure, impacting travel plans for thousands of passengers. Airport authorities are working diligently to manage the situation and minimize further disruptions, prioritizing passenger safety amidst the adverse weather conditions.
The decision to cancel flights was made following close consultation with the India Meteorological Department (IMD), which issued warnings of heavy rainfall, strong winds, and potential flooding in areas expected to be affected by the cyclone. The IMD’s forecasts indicated that conditions could become unsafe for aircraft operations, prompting the airport to proactively suspend services to ensure the well-being of passengers and crew.
Affected airlines have been scrambling to re-accommodate passengers on alternative flights or provide refunds. Many travelers have reported long queues at airline counters and increased call volumes to customer service centers, highlighting the strain on resources caused by the widespread cancellations. Airport officials are advising passengers to check the status of their flights with their respective airlines before heading to the airport. Real-time updates are also being disseminated through the airport’s official website and social media channels.
Beyond flight cancellations, the airport is implementing a range of safety protocols to mitigate potential damage from the cyclone. Ground staff are securing equipment, reinforcing structures, and clearing drainage systems to prevent flooding. Emergency response teams are on standby, ready to address any unforeseen incidents that may arise.
The impact of Cyclone Montha extends beyond the immediate disruption to air travel. The cancellations are expected to have a ripple effect on various sectors, including tourism, business travel, and cargo transportation. Companies relying on timely deliveries of goods may face delays, and planned conferences and events could be postponed or cancelled.
While the immediate focus is on managing the current situation, airport authorities are also preparing for the recovery phase. Once the cyclone passes and weather conditions improve, a phased resumption of flight operations is planned. This will involve a thorough assessment of airport infrastructure, runway conditions, and air traffic control systems to ensure that operations can resume safely and efficiently.
The situation at RGIA underscores the vulnerability of critical infrastructure to extreme weather events. As climate change intensifies, airports and other transportation hubs are increasingly exposed to the risks of cyclones, floods, and other natural disasters. This highlights the need for proactive planning, investment in resilient infrastructure, and effective communication strategies to minimize disruptions and protect public safety.
In the coming days, the focus will remain on monitoring the progress of Cyclone Montha and its potential impact on Hyderabad. Airport authorities are committed to providing timely updates to passengers and working closely with airlines and government agencies to navigate this challenging situation. The priority remains the safety and well-being of all travelers and staff as the region braces for the full force of the storm. The hope is that by taking proactive measures and prioritizing safety, the impact of Cyclone Montha on air travel and the wider community can be minimized, allowing for a swift return to normalcy once the storm has passed.
This article was created based on information from various sources and rewritten for clarity and originality.
