New Delhi: A rare volcanic eruption in Ethiopia’s Afar region sent a massive ash plume soaring up to 14 kilometres into the atmosphere on Sunday, marking the first recorded activity of the Hayli Gubbi volcano in nearly 12,000 years. Fast-moving winds carried the ash across the Red Sea and the Arabian Peninsula before it drifted into parts of western and northern India, adding to concerns in regions already battling poor air quality.
The ash cloud reached Delhi late on Sunday night, affecting several international flight operations. The India Meteorological Department reported that the plume was moving towards China and was expected to clear from Indian skies by early evening. According to the agency, strong high-altitude winds transported the volcanic material over Yemen, Oman and the Arabian Sea before it neared the subcontinent.
India’s aviation regulator issued a detailed advisory, urging airlines to avoid volcanic ash-affected areas and adjust flight routes accordingly. Airlines were instructed to report any encounter with suspected ash, including irregular engine behaviour or unusual odour inside aircraft cabins. Air India cancelled multiple flights as a precaution while inspections were carried out on aircraft operating in regions near the ash path. IndiGo and other carriers assured passengers that monitoring systems were active and that safety protocols were being followed rigorously.
Experts noted that the plume contains mainly sulphur dioxide and moderate levels of volcanic ash. While it was unlikely to significantly worsen India’s air quality index, they cautioned that increased SO2 concentrations may affect parts of the Himalayan region and nearby plains as the plume continues its movement.
The eruption coated several villages in Ethiopia with ash and sent a column of smoke visible across the Afar region, an area known for frequent seismic activity due to its position along the tectonically active Rift Valley. Residents described hearing a powerful blast followed by waves of ash sweeping across the landscape.
Airports and airlines across India and West Asia continue to monitor developments closely. Though the eruption has subsided, a large plume remains aloft and is expected to shift further northward. Aviation agencies and meteorological centres are tracking its trajectory to ensure safe air travel as the situation evolves.
