Srinagar Snowfall Cancels 11 Flights, Disrupts Air Travel

Heavy snowfall in Srinagar has led to the cancellation of 11 flights from major airlines, including IndiGo and Air India Express. The airport authority cited adverse weather and operational constraints, advising passengers to contact their airlines. The India Meteorological Department has issued warnings for thunderstorms and gusty winds across Jammu & Kashmir. Local officials report this is the region's heaviest snowfall in nearly 25 years, impacting travel and essential services.

Key Points: Flight Cancellations in Srinagar Due to Heavy Snowfall

  • 11 flights cancelled
  • Snow accumulation on runways
  • BRO teams clearing snow
  • IMD warns of thunderstorms
  • Heaviest snowfall in 25 years
3 min read

J-K: 11 flights cancelled for IndiGo, Akasa Air, and Air India due to snow in Srinagar

11 flights from IndiGo, Akasa Air, and Air India Express cancelled at Srinagar Airport due to adverse weather and snow accumulation.

"Due to prevailing adverse weather conditions at Srinagar Airport, additional flights have been cancelled for today. - Srinagar Airport"

Srinagar, January 27

Srinagar Airport on Tuesday issued a statement for several flight cancellations in view of the unfavourable weather conditions and prevailing operational constraints. Among them, 6 Indigo, 2 Air Akasa, and 3 Air India Express flights have been cancelled till 9 AM.

The official X account of Srinagar Airport wrote, "Due to prevailing adverse weather conditions at Srinagar Airport, additional flights have been cancelled for today. The updated list of cancelled flights is attached. Passengers are advised to remain in contact with their respective airlines for the latest updates and alternate arrangements."

Earlier today, they had informed of expected flight delays due to snow accumulation on airside pavements, advising passengers to continue communicating with their airlines.

"Due to continuous light snowfall since early hours, snow accumulation has been observed on airside pavements. BRO teams are actively engaged in snow clearance to make the operational areas fit for flight operations. Owing to adverse en-route weather and prevailing conditions, flight delays may be expected. Passengers are advised to stay in touch with their respective airlines for updates.", the X post read.

IndiGo Airlines also issued a travel advisory early morning, stating that snowfall may affect flight operations.

"Ongoing snowfall in #Srinagar may impact flight operations. If you or your loved ones are travelling, please check your flight status here: https://goindigo.in/check-flight-status.html. In case of cancellations, you may explore alternate options or claim a refund by visiting: https://goindigo.in/plan-b.html.", the airline shared on X.

"We assure you that our airport teams are present to provide the best possible assistance and support to all customers. Weather-related impacts are beyond our control, and we regret the inconvenience caused and appreciate your understanding.", the post continued.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), several areas in the Jammu region are experiencing snowfall and rain on Tuesday, with Srinagar receiving "slight continuous snowflakes."

The IMD issued a weather warning of isolated thunderstorm activity with lightning, hail, and gusty winds (40-50 kmph) over Jammu & Kashmir today.

Several parts of Jammu and Kashmir, including Rajouri district, witnessed heavy snowfall this season, with the Kotranka-Budhal belt in the Pir Panjal range receiving significant snowfall, turning the region into a major tourist attraction. Local residents said that such heavy snowfall has not been seen in nearly 25 years.

Deputy Commissioner Abhishek Sharma said that due to western disturbances, heavy snowfall has occurred in the Pir Panjal range, with maximum snowfall recorded in the Thanamandi and Kotranka sub-divisions. "During my visit to Thanamandi, basic facilities and essential services were reviewed, and their restoration was checked. Electricity restoration at Kotranka will be completed by tonight. Vehicular movement will be within 1-2 hours. Continuous work on road traffic management is underway from early morning," he said, adding that efforts are being made to ensure uninterrupted rations, water, electricity, medical care and emergency services.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
This is so disruptive for travelers. My cousin was supposed to fly back from Srinagar today and is now stuck. Airlines need to have better contingency plans and communication. The refund process is often so tedious.
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Aman W
Heavy snowfall after 25 years! While it's trouble for flights, it's a blessing for tourism and agriculture in the valley. The pictures from Pir Panjal must be breathtaking. Hope the locals are safe and essential services are restored soon.
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Sarah B
It's good to see the authorities and BRO teams working actively. The update from the Deputy Commissioner about restoring electricity and roads is reassuring. Natural events happen, but prompt government response makes all the difference.
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Vikram M
This is why we need more all-weather connectivity options for regions like Kashmir, including better rail links. Over-reliance on air travel during winter months always leads to these issues. Infrastructure development is key.
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Kavya N
Feel so bad for the passengers, especially families with small children. Hope the airport lounges are making them comfortable. Airlines should provide hotel vouchers automatically for such long delays, not make people fight for it.

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