Nepal Protests Prompt Flight Cancellations: Air India and IndiGo Take Precautionary Measures
New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu) : Air India and IndiGo on Tuesday cancelled their flights between Delhi and Kathmandu in view of the chaos created by the Jan J&K protests in neighbouring country Nepal.
Air India said in a statement, "Given the current situation in Kathmandu, flights on the Delhi-Kathmandu-Delhi route have been cancelled. These flights include AI2231/2232, AI2219/2220, AI217/218 and AI211/212." An Air India spokesperson said, "We are closely monitoring the situation and will share further information soon. At Air India, we give top priority to the safety of our passengers and crew." IndiGo said that given the current situation in Kathmandu, the airport has been closed for operations.
The airline said in a post on social media platform X, "All flights to and from Kathmandu are currently suspended. If your travel is affected, you can conveniently choose an alternate flight or claim a refund by visiting our website." IndiGo said, "We are closely monitoring the developments and coordinating with local authorities to resume operations as soon as possible. Customers are advised to keep checking our official channels for the latest updates. We await the resumption of normal operations and thank you for your patience."
Meanwhile, Nepal Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli on Monday resigned from his post as protests intensified for the second day after the killing of 19 protesters. People in Nepal were protesting demanding accountability for corruption and a ban on social media. Many people died on the first day of the protest. Angered by this, protesters across the country started attacking the houses of leaders and government buildings. On Tuesday, protesters entered the Parliament building in Kathmandu and set it on fire. Protesters had also tried unsuccessfully to damage the building on Monday, after which many people died in strict police action. India said that the changing and deteriorating situation in Nepal is being closely monitored.