India witnessed an unusual atmospheric event on Monday as a high-altitude mass of volcanic ash from the Hayli Gubbi volcano in northern Ethiopia drifted over parts of the country, including Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana and Delhi. The volcano, which erupted after lying dormant for nearly 12,000 years, sent massive ash clouds soaring into the upper layers of the atmosphere, carried swiftly across continents by strong winds.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the plume of ash is currently located 8 to 15 kilometres above sea level and travelling at nearly 150 km/h. Due to its extremely high altitude, the ash is not expected to impact surface-level air quality or pose any health risks. Delhi, which continues to struggle with “very poor” air quality due to local pollution, remains unaffected by the ash.
IMD Chief Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, speaking to NDTV, assured that there is no need for panic. “We have not issued any public advisory. The volcanic ash layer is too high to influence pollution levels or day-to-day weather. It will move out of Indian airspace and drift towards China by around 7 pm today,” he said.
Flights Hit as Ash Disrupts High-Altitude Routes
While residents on the ground remain safe, the ash cloud has caused significant aeronautical disruptions. According to official figures, 19 international flights scheduled to arrive in India were impacted. This includes seven cancellations and twelve delays across major airports.
Flights affected include routes from:
- Newark to Delhi
- New York to Delhi
- Dubai to Hyderabad
- Doha to Mumbai
- Dammam to Mumbai
- Dubai to Chennai
- Hyderabad to Delhi
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) released a safety advisory urging airlines to avoid ash-affected flight levels, modify routes, and plan additional fuel if required. Pilots were instructed to report any suspected ash encounters, including engine performance issues or cabin odour.
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Airlines responded promptly. Air India expressed regret for the inconvenience caused, emphasising that passenger safety remains its “highest priority”. IndiGo also issued a statement assuring travellers that it is “closely coordinating with international aviation bodies” and fully prepared with all necessary precautions.
When Will the Situation Normalise?
IMD confirms that the ash clouds are already drifting eastward through Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. By evening, they are expected to move completely out of India, with skies returning to normal conditions.
For now, authorities maintain that the situation is under control, flights are being monitored closely, and the public has no reason to worry.