Ash cloud from Ethiopia’s volcano reaches Indian cities

Ash clouds from a volcano that erupted in Ethiopia after 12,000 years have now drifted over several Indian cities, while Pakistan’s airspace has fully cleared, according to officials.

The volcanic ash, which earlier impacted parts of Pakistan, has now reached Gujarat, New Delhi, Rajasthan, Punjab and Haryana, India’s Meteorological Department confirmed.

Due to the ash cloud, flight routes are being adjusted, and Air India has cancelled flights operating through affected corridors as a precaution.

India’s Met Department also stated that the ash cloud is moving toward China and is expected to exit Indian airspace by 7:30 PM on Tuesday.

On the other hand, Pakistan Meteorological Department spokesperson Anjum Nazir said the ash cloud has completely shifted toward India, leaving Pakistan’s airspace clear. He added that the ash will move toward Rajasthan, and Pakistan’s northern areas will remain unaffected.

He clarified that the ash travelled above Sindh from the Arabian Sea without impacting the ground.

Nazir noted that, for the first time in Pakistan’s history, an aviation advisory for volcanic ash was issued. The ash cloud rose to over 45,000 feet, while domestic flights operate at around 36,000 feet and international flights between 40,000 and 48,000 feet, necessitating precautions for flight safety.