Kolkata, October 24, 2024 — As Cyclonic Storm Dana intensifies over the Bay of Bengal, the Kolkata airport (Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport) has announced the suspension of all flight operations starting from 6 PM today, October 24. This decision was made as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of passengers, airline staff, and airport infrastructure amid the looming threat of severe weather conditions.
Flight Operations Suspended Amid Cyclone Alert
The airport authorities, in coordination with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and other relevant agencies, decided to halt all arrivals and departures in anticipation of Cyclone Dana’s landfall. The cyclone, currently classified as “severe,” is expected to bring heavy rainfall, strong winds exceeding 100 km/h, and potential flooding to coastal areas, including Kolkata.
A spokesperson for the Kolkata airport confirmed the suspension, stating, “All flight operations will be suspended from 6 PM today, and the situation will be reviewed every 12 hours. Passenger safety is our top priority, and we urge everyone to stay updated on their flight schedules through airlines and official channels.”
Cyclone Dana: Path and Intensity
According to the IMD, Cyclone Dana has rapidly intensified and is expected to make landfall along the West Bengal-Odisha coast late on October 24 or early on October 25. The storm is currently positioned over the central Bay of Bengal, with sustained winds of around 120 km/h. IMD has issued a “Red Alert” for Kolkata, South 24 Parganas, North 24 Parganas, and other coastal districts of West Bengal.
Meteorologists warn that Cyclone Dana could cause widespread damage, particularly in low-lying areas prone to flooding. The cyclone is expected to bring extremely heavy rainfall, accompanied by storm surges in coastal regions, posing a significant risk to life and property.
Airlines Issue Travel Advisories
Several airlines, including Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet, have issued travel advisories to passengers, urging them to check flight statuses and avoid non-essential travel during the cyclone’s expected duration. Passengers are being advised to rebook or cancel their flights, with many airlines waiving cancellation and rescheduling fees.
In a statement, IndiGo Airlines said, “In light of Cyclone Dana, passengers traveling to and from Kolkata are advised to regularly check the status of their flights. We are offering flexibility for passengers to reschedule their bookings without any additional fees.”
Impact on Kolkata and Surrounding Areas
Kolkata city and the surrounding regions are expected to experience heavy rainfall starting this afternoon, accompanied by strong winds. The Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) has issued advisories, asking residents to stay indoors and avoid waterlogged areas during the cyclone. The state government has also initiated the deployment of disaster response teams and has set up emergency shelters in coastal areas.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee urged citizens to remain vigilant and follow safety protocols. “We are closely monitoring the situation and have mobilized resources to handle any emergency that may arise due to Cyclone Dana. I request everyone to stay indoors and cooperate with the authorities,” she said in a statement.
LIVE Updates from Kolkata Airport
- 4:00 PM: Airlines begin sending notifications to passengers about flight cancellations and rescheduling options. The airport sees a sharp increase in passengers trying to leave before the 6 PM deadline.
- 5:00 PM: Kolkata airport staff begin preparing for the suspension of operations, grounding several aircraft and securing airport equipment in anticipation of high winds.
- 6:00 PM: All flight operations officially cease at Kolkata airport. The airport terminal is expected to remain open, but no flights will take off or land until further notice.
- 7:00 PM: IMD confirms that Cyclone Dana has further intensified and continues to track toward the West Bengal coast, with landfall expected late at night.
Authorities Urge Caution
As Cyclone Dana approaches, authorities are urging citizens to take all necessary precautions. Residents in affected areas have been advised to stock up on essential supplies, avoid venturing outdoors, and ensure that all windows and doors are securely fastened.
The Kolkata Police have also stepped up patrols to manage traffic and ensure public safety, especially in areas prone to flooding. Additionally, disaster response teams are on standby to address any emergencies that may arise from the cyclone’s impact.
Conclusion
As Cyclone Dana bears down on West Bengal, the suspension of flight operations at Kolkata airport is a crucial step in ensuring the safety of travelers and airport staff. With severe weather conditions expected over the next 24 to 48 hours, both the state government and the airport authorities are closely monitoring the situation.
Passengers with upcoming flights are advised to stay informed via official airline channels, and residents in affected areas should take all necessary safety measures. Stay tuned for further updates on Cyclone Dana and its impact on Kolkata and the surrounding regions.
