Severe weather conditions wreaked havoc at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport on Wednesday, leading to multiple flight cancellations and diversions, airport sources confirmed. The disruptions caused significant inconvenience to passengers, with several flights to and from key destinations affected due to heavy rainfall and adverse weather in Telangana.
IndiGo airlines bore the brunt of the cancellations, with flights to Kochi, Chennai, and Ahmedabad, along with their return services, completely grounded. Airport officials reported that at least 10 flights were diverted to alternate airports as conditions made landing in Hyderabad unsafe. By evening, seven of these diverted flights managed to return and land safely, but the disruptions left many travelers stranded or delayed.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a 'red alert' for various parts of Telangana, including Hyderabad, warning of extreme weather conditions continuing until Thursday. An official from the Met Centre elaborated, stating that an 'orange alert' for "heavy to very heavy rainfall" was also in place for several districts across the state. The intense rainfall, coupled with strong winds, has led to waterlogging in parts of Hyderabad, further complicating travel and local commuting.
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Passengers at the airport expressed frustration over the lack of timely updates and accommodations, with some reporting long waits at the terminal. Airport authorities have advised travelers to check flight statuses before heading to the airport and are working to restore normal operations as soon as weather conditions permit. The IMD has urged residents to stay cautious, avoid travel during heavy downpours, and monitor updates for further weather developments.
As Telangana braces for more rainfall, the situation at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport remains fluid, with officials closely monitoring the weather to ensure safe operations. Travelers are encouraged to stay informed and plan accordingly to avoid further disruptions.
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