Bhubaneswar: Turbulent weather triggered by nor’wester in Kolkata led to the sudden diversion of several flights as high-velocity winds and heavy rain made landing there unsafe.
As many as eight of these Kolkata-bound flights were diverted to Bhubaneswar on Saturday evening, according to officials at the Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA).
Of these eight diverted flights, six were later cleared to return to Kolkata after the weather conditions improved. Airport authorities in Bhubaneswar confirmed that the flights were able to take off safely after a temporary halt.
However, two of the flights continued to remain grounded at Bhubaneswar Airport for quite a long time, sources said.
The sudden unexpected diversion of so many flights caused considerable commotion at Bhubaneswar airport as passengers had to wait for hours at the airport terminals. Overcrowding reportedly created a chaotic situation at the airport.
Stranded passengers expressed their discontent, alleging poor communication and response from the airport authorities to the concerns raised by them.
Officials said that both airport staff and airlines coordinated efforts to manage the situation, providing updates and assistance to the stranded flyers.
BPIA officials said the situation was being closely monitored and necessary steps are being taken in coordination with Kolkata airport authorities.
After a long time, flight operations gradually returned to normal as the intensity of the storm subsided.
