India has suspended civilian flights at 24 airports in the north following heightened tensions with nuclear-armed rival Pakistan. The move comes after India launched air strikes on Wednesday targeting “terrorist camps” in Pakistan, sparking the worst clashes between the neighbors in decades. Nearly 50 people have perished, mainly in Pakistan, as a result of the violence.
The Indian government released a list of 24 airports that have been closed for civilian flights, including in the cities of Jodhpur, Ludhiana, and Amritsar near the western border with Pakistan. Some of India’s biggest airlines, including Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet, have cancelled over 100 flights since Wednesday. According to local media reports, the suspension of civilian flights may be lifted on Saturday morning.
Indian airlines have also issued advisories to passengers flying out from other airports, asking them to arrive at least three hours before departure, citing a government notification on enhanced security measures. The increased security protocols are aimed at ensuring the safety of passengers and preventing any potential disruptions to flight operations.
The air strikes on Wednesday were carried out in response to an attack on tourists in the Indian-administered side of disputed Kashmir, which New Delhi blamed on Pakistan. However, Pakistan has denied any involvement in the attack. The arch-rivals have since exchanged drones and missiles, as well as artillery fire across their contested border in Kashmir. The escalating violence has raised fears of a wider conflict between the neighbors.
The situation remains tense, with both countries maintaining a high level of alertness along their borders. The suspension of flights at 24 airports is a precautionary measure aimed at preventing any potential escalation of the conflict. As the situation continues to unfold, passengers and travelers are advised to stay informed about the latest developments and plan accordingly.
The international community is closely watching the situation, with concerns about the potential consequences of a wider conflict between India and Pakistan. The two countries have a long-standing dispute over Kashmir, and the recent violence has raised fears of a larger-scale conflict. As tensions continue to simmer, diplomatic efforts are underway to de-escalate the situation and prevent further violence.