The Pongal festival in Tamil Nadu, known for its vibrant traditions, has once again impacted operations at Chennai International Airport. Smoke from the customary burning of old clothes and waste during Bhogi, a part of Pongal celebrations, blanketed the city, severely reducing visibility and leading to widespread flight cancellations and delays.
Flight Operations Affected
On January 13, the thick smog caused by festival activities led to the cancellation of three key Indigo flights from Delhi and Bengaluru. Additionally, schedules for over 30 flights to destinations such as Dubai, Singapore, and Mumbai were modified.
International carriers, including Oman Air and AirAsia, adjusted their schedules to accommodate the hazardous conditions, ensuring passenger safety. For instance, AirAsia flights between Chennai and Kuala Lumpur were rescheduled until January 15, shifting arrival and departure times to later in the day when visibility improves.
Recurring Issue During Pongal
This is not the first time Chennai airport has faced disruptions during Pongal. In previous years, similar conditions led to significant operational challenges. In 2018, 118 flights were affected, while the number dropped to 51 in 2024. This year, airlines proactively rescheduled early morning flights to mitigate the impact of poor visibility.
Despite efforts by civic authorities to reduce pollution and raise awareness, the issue persists due to limited pilot training for operations under visibility conditions below 400 meters.
Broader Implications: Air Quality and Public Health
The impact of Bhogi celebrations extends beyond the airport. Chennai’s air quality deteriorated significantly, with dense smoke causing breathing difficulties for residents and visibility challenges for motorists.
The Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) is monitoring air quality at 15 locations in Chennai during the festival. While mild rain temporarily improved conditions, pollution levels are expected to rise further.
Steps Toward Resolution
While authorities have taken measures to curb waste burning near the airport, greater community engagement and stricter enforcement are necessary to prevent disruptions in the future. Enhanced pilot training for low-visibility conditions and improved technology for airport operations could mitigate the impact of such events.
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