KARACHI – Ash clouds from Ethiopia volcano, which erupted after a gap of 12,000 years have now spread across India, while Pakistan’s airspace has been cleared.
The eruption’s volcanic ash has traveled from Pakistan, where it had previously caused disruptions, and now reached Indian cities, including Gujarat, New Delhi, Rajasthan, Punjab, and Haryana.
According to India’s Meteorological Department, the ash has impacted air travel routes, prompting flight diversions and cancellations. Air India has taken precautionary measures by grounding flights that were scheduled to fly through affected air routes.
Meteorological authorities in India also confirmed that the ash clouds are moving towards China and are expected to exit India by Tuesday evening.
The ash is believed to have caused significant disruptions in flight operations, with airlines adjusting their flight paths for safety.
Update on Pakistan Air Space Amid Ash Cloud
In Pakistan, however, the situation has improved. Pakistan’s Meteorological Department spokesperson, Anjum Nazir, stated that the country’s airspace has been cleared of volcanic ash, with no impact on flights. Nazir clarified that the ash cloud, which passed over Sindh and the Arabian Sea, did not affect the northern regions of Pakistan.
He added that the ash cloud was at a height of over 45,000 feet, much higher than the altitude of domestic flights, which typically operate between 36,000 to 48,000 feet.
This eruption has also marked a significant moment in aviation, as Pakistan’s meteorological department issued its first-ever advisory for volcanic ash.
Despite the disruptions in flight operations, the situation in Pakistan has stabilized, and air traffic is expected to proceed without further delays.
