KOLKATA: As Cyclone Remal looms over West Bengal, Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport has taken proactive measures, suspending flight operations for 21 hours from Sunday noon.
This decision, affecting 394 flights in both international and domestic sectors, aims to ensure passenger safety amidst anticipated adverse weather conditions. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) confirmed the suspension, citing the impending impact of cyclone Remal as the primary reason. A meeting convened with airport stakeholders underscored the necessity of this precautionary step following insights from the Meteorological Department, forecasting heavy winds exceeding 50 to 60 knots, with gusts up to 70 knots.
NSCBI Airport Director C. Pattabhi emphasised the importance of preparedness, stating, “In view of cyclone Remal’s impact on the coastal region of West Bengal, including Kolkata, a meeting was held with stakeholders, and it has been decided to suspend flight operations.” The suspension will last from 1200 IST on May 26 to 0900 IST on May 27, aligning with predictions of heavy winds and rainfall. Cyclone Remal, with wind speeds reaching 110-120 km per hour and gusts up to 135 kmph, is forecasted to make landfall around midnight on May 26 along the West Bengal-Bangladesh coast. The Met Office issued warnings of extremely heavy rainfall in coastal West Bengal and north Odisha during May 26-27, accompanied by a storm surge expected to inundate low-lying areas.
Ahead of the cyclone’s impact, comprehensive safety protocols are being implemented at the airport. These include lowering high mast lights, securing equipment, shifting vehicles to safer locations, and completing mooring procedures for smaller aircraft. Furthermore, the decision to halt flight operations well in advance of the cyclone’s landfall aims to minimise risks for passengers and aircraft en route. This strategic approach underscores the airport’s commitment to passenger safety and operational efficiency amidst adverse weather conditions. By prioritising precautionary measures and coordination among stakeholders, Kolkata’s airport aims to mitigate potential disruptions and ensure the resilience of its operations in the face of Cyclone Remal’s impending impact.
