Flight operations at Kazi Nazrul Islam Airport in Durgapur have been suspended due to severe rain and waterlogging. The heavy downpour, which has been relentless over the past few days, has led to extensive water accumulation on the airport’s runways and surrounding areas, making it unsafe for aircraft to take off or land.
The suspension of flights has caused significant disruption for passengers, many of whom were left stranded or forced to seek alternative travel arrangements. Airlines operating at the airport, including both domestic and regional carriers, have had to cancel or reschedule numerous flights, leading to a ripple effect of delays and inconveniences.
Airport authorities have been working around the clock to address the waterlogging issue. Pumping equipment has been deployed to remove the excess water from the runways and taxiways, but the continuous rainfall has hampered efforts to restore normal operations. “Our primary concern is the safety of passengers and aircraft. We are doing everything in our power to clear the water and resume operations as soon as possible,” said a spokesperson for the airport.
The situation has highlighted the challenges faced by infrastructure in coping with extreme weather conditions. Kazi Nazrul Islam Airport, a crucial hub for the region, plays a vital role in connecting Durgapur with major cities across India. The airport’s closure has not only affected passengers but also disrupted cargo services, impacting businesses and the local economy.
Passengers have expressed frustration over the lack of timely information and assistance from airlines. Many have taken to social media to share their experiences, calling for better communication and contingency plans during such disruptions. “I was supposed to fly to Delhi for an important meeting, but my flight was canceled at the last minute. There was no clear information on when flights would resume,” said a stranded passenger.
Local authorities are also involved in managing the situation, coordinating with the airport and weather services to monitor the rain and provide updates to the public. “We are in constant touch with the airport officials and are closely monitoring the weather conditions. Our teams are ready to provide any necessary support to ensure the safety and convenience of the passengers,” said a representative from the local administration.
The airport management has advised passengers to stay in touch with their respective airlines for the latest updates on flight schedules. They have also urged travelers to check the airport’s official website and social media channels for real-time information.
As the rain continues to pose challenges, the focus remains on mitigating the impact of waterlogging and ensuring that flight operations can safely resume. This incident underscores the need for enhanced infrastructure and preparedness to handle extreme weather events, ensuring that such disruptions are minimized in the future.
