African Volcano Ash Cloud Reaches India

A dramatic volcanic eruption in Ethiopia has led to an ash plume traveling across northwest India. This significant event occurred late on Monday night, impacting visibility and causing disruptions to air travel. The affected regions include Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Delhi-NCR, and Punjab.

Ash Cloud from Hayli Gubbi Volcano

The eruption of the Hayli Gubbi volcano, which had remained dormant for nearly 12,000 years, took place on Sunday. The volcanic ash cloud reached an altitude exceeding 10 kilometers, as reported by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). This height mitigated its impact on the already critical air pollution levels in Delhi, where the cloud’s presence was detected around 11 PM.

Flight Disruptions and Government Response

As the ash plume moved eastward through India, it affected multiple airlines, including Akasa Air and IndiGo. Both carriers canceled or diverted several flights due to safety precautions. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued an advisory alerting airlines to avoid areas with volcanic ash.

• Ash cloud entered India through Rajasthan at 6:30 PM.
• Travel speeds of the ash were between 100 km/h and 120 km/h.
• Advisories recommended compliance with volcanic ash procedures for aviation safety.

Impact on Air Quality and Weather Conditions

The IMD indicated that the cloud would likely only cause temporary effects in urban areas, primarily resulting in a hazy sky. Though the impact on air quality might increase briefly, significant harm is not anticipated at ground level. Ash components such as sulphur dioxide and tiny glass fragments could darken the sky and disrupt air traffic.

Sunil Dahiya, a lead analyst at Envirocatalysts, mentioned potential spikes in pollution levels, exacerbated by local factors like stubble burning. Earlier measurements revealed poor air quality in the National Capital Region (NCR), with AQI readings reaching dangerously high levels before the arrival of the volcanic ash.

Ongoing Monitoring and Future Implications

Indian aviation authorities are closely monitoring the situation. Increased vigilance includes tracking volcanic ash advisories and ensuring compliance with safety protocols. The DGCA has emphasized that operations may be restricted or halted at impacted airports if conditions worsen.

Authorities are conducting regular inspections of runways and taxiways in anticipation of continued ash movement across various regions. The situation remains dynamic, and airline operations are expected to be affected further in the coming days.

For travelers, staying informed through airline updates and adhering to official guidance will be essential as this ash cloud’s effects continue to unfold across India.