Centre Approves Reopening Of 32 Airports As Tensions Ease On India-Pakistan Border

The Centre has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) on Monday to reopen 32 airports that had been closed since May 9 due to heightened tensions between India and Pakistan.

The closure followed cross-border drone and missile attacks after the Pahalgam massacre of 26 tourists by Islamabad-backed terrorists.

The airports set to gradually reopen include those in Chandigarh, Srinagar, Amritsar, Ludhiana, Bhuntar, Kishangarh, Patiala, Shimla, Kangra-Gaggal, Bathinda, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Halwara, Pathankot, Jammu, Leh, Mundra, Jamnagar, Hirasar, Porbandar, Keshod, Kandla, and Bhuj.

Safety Measures And Caution Despite Ceasefire

While the ceasefire announced after Pakistan’s Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) requested it is largely holding, the government has decided to reopen the airports gradually as a precaution.

A statement from the Indian Army on Monday reported that the night across Jammu and Kashmir and other areas along the International Border remained largely peaceful, marking the first calm night in recent days.

The government remains cautious despite the ceasefire to ensure no further incidents occur.

Airports Reopen As India-Pakistan Tensions Ease

The reopening of these airports, particularly those near the Pakistan border, signals a de-escalation in cross-border hostilities. This development follows India’s successful ‘Operation Sindoor’, a retaliatory operation launched to avenge the Pahalgam killings.

With the reopening, flight operations are expected to return to normal, following widespread disruptions caused by the conflict.

Airports Operation Smooth; Delays Expected

Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) confirmed on Monday that operations at the airport are currently smooth.

Changing airspace conditions and heightened security measures may affect some flight schedules and processing times at security checkpoints.

The airport management has advised passengers to stay updated with their airlines’ instructions, allow extra time for security checks, and adhere to baggage regulations.

Airlines and the official Delhi Airport website encourage passengers to check the latest flight status.

PM Modi Meets Service Chiefs Amid Continued Caution

While a ceasefire agreement was reached on Saturday, the government remains cautious on the security front.

On Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting with the three service chiefs and the Chief of Defence Staff to review the latest developments and ensure that necessary measures are in place.

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