UAE Residents Stranded as India's Unprecedented Fog Sparks Flight Cancellations
The travel plans of UAE residents have been severely impacted as hundreds of flights in India face cancellations. Airport authorities in India are grappling with unprecedented fog and adverse weather conditions, leading to widespread disruptions. Airline operators in India have established war rooms at six airports to manage the challenging situation.
One such passenger affected by these disruptions is Sadia Anwar, who had booked a flight to New Delhi with the urgent goal of reaching her ailing father in Bhopal. Unfortunately, her flight was canceled, causing her to miss the connecting flight to Bhopal. Subsequently, she was rerouted to Mumbai, facing a delay of over two hours. The chaotic situation has left many passengers frustrated and distressed.
Inclement weather, especially in cities like New Delhi, has led to unprecedented fog and other adverse conditions, resulting in extremely low visibility at airports. This has triggered a domino effect, causing delays and cancellations of more than 150 flights to and within India over the past two days. The New Delhi airport, in particular, has been severely impacted, affecting both domestic and international flights.
Safeer Mahamood, the general manager at Smart Travels, highlighted the global nature of flight disruptions, citing delays in the US sector, particularly among domestic flights. Other regions, including Mauritius, have also experienced cancellations and delays due to factors like the cyclone Belal. Even major airports like Heathrow have faced weather-related issues, leading to flight diversions. However, India remains one of the worst-hit areas, exacerbating the challenges faced by passengers.
Passengers have taken to social media to express their distress, with some resorting to extreme actions. A viral video captured a passenger slapping a pilot after a 10-hour flight delay. Instances of passengers using the tarmac as a dining hall and engaging in heated arguments with airport staff have also surfaced on social media.
Sadia Anwar, fortunate to have her flights rearranged, recounted her experience of urgently contacting Air India from Dubai. She requested the cancellation of her New Delhi to Bhopal tickets and rebooking for Mumbai to Bhopal. Her appeal was driven by the critical condition of her father, who was on a ventilator. Fortunately, Air India accommodated her request, allowing her to reach home and be by her father's side.
India's civil aviation minister, Jyotiraditya Scindia, acknowledged the widespread flight disruptions and stated that the government had implemented several measures to address the situation. War rooms have been set up at six airports to handle passenger concerns and streamline communication.
Safeer emphasized the importance for passengers to stay informed about their flights and advised contacting airlines if traveling to affected areas. Given the dynamic nature of weather-related challenges, passengers are urged to prepare for potential delays by packing essentials in their carry-ons.
In summary, the unprecedented fog and adverse weather conditions in India have triggered significant flight cancellations, causing widespread disruptions for UAE residents and other global travelers. Passengers are advised to stay vigilant, check their flight status, and communicate with airlines for real-time updates amid the challenging travel environment.
For More Related Updates Please Visit Our Official Website
By- Sahiba Suri
Comments