Aviation Ministry Issues Directives Amid Delhi Terminal 1 Collapse
In light of the concerning incident at Terminal 1 of the Delhi airport on Friday morning, the Aviation Ministry has swiftly issued an advisory to all airlines. The advisory urges airlines to closely monitor any abnormal surge in airfares to and from Delhi. Additionally, the ministry emphasizes the need for airlines to facilitate flight cancellations and rescheduling without imposing any penal charges.
Civil Aviation Minister Addresses Passenger Safety Concerns
Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu convened a high-level review meeting on Friday evening, bringing together key officials to discuss passenger safety amidst the ongoing situation. The meeting focused on implementing measures to ensure the well-being of passengers affected by the Terminal 1 incident.
Inspection of Airport Infrastructure Ordered
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has been instructed to issue a comprehensive circular to all airports, regardless of size, mandating a thorough inspection of their structural integrity. The AAI is obligated to submit detailed inspection reports to the Ministry of Civil Aviation within five days of the circular's issuance.
Expert Assessment and War Room Established
A team of highly skilled structural engineers from IIT Delhi has been deployed to conduct a meticulous assessment of the damage sustained by Terminal 1 at the Delhi airport. To facilitate seamless assistance to affected passengers, the Civil Aviation Ministry has established a dedicated war room that will closely monitor the provision of full refunds for canceled flights or alternative travel arrangements.
Helpline Numbers for Passenger Support
For the assistance of Indigo passengers, helpline numbers have been established for both T2 and T3 terminals. For T2, the helpline number is 74287 48308, while for T3, the helpline number is 74287 48310. SpiceJet passengers can reach out to helpline numbers 0124-49834100124-71016009711209864 for assistance at Terminal 3.
Ministry Issues Advisory on Airfare Monitoring
Earlier, the Ministry of Civil Aviation took to Twitter to release an advisory stating, In view of the unfortunate incident at Terminal 1 IGIA, Delhi, all airlines are advised to monitor any abnormal surge in airfares to and from Delhi and take necessary action regarding the same.
Flight Cancellations and Rescheduling
The incident at Terminal 1 has resulted in the cancellation of several flights scheduled to depart from that terminal. Multiple flights have been shifted to Terminals 2 and 3 to ensure operational continuity. All flights scheduled for departure from Terminal 1 until 2:00 PM have been canceled. Flights scheduled to depart after 2:00 PM will operate from Terminals 2 and 3.
Passenger Assistance Measures
The airlines have been instructed to accommodate passengers on alternate flights or provide full refunds as per the regulations set by the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). Passengers can opt for full refunds or rebook their flights on alternative routes or flights.
Record Rainfall in Delhi
Delhi has experienced unprecedented rainfall in the past 24 hours, with 228.1 mm of precipitation recorded, making it one of the wettest times the capital has witnessed in June. The heavy rainfall has led to waterlogging in several areas of the city. Between 2:30 AM and 5:30 AM, Delhi received an astounding 150 mm of rainfall.
The highest rainfall ever recorded in Delhi during June in 24 hours was 235.5 mm on June 28, 1936, at Safdarjung, the primary meteorological observatory of the city.
Published By: Vadapalli Nithin KumarnPublished On: Jun 28, 2024
