52 flights cancelled, 55 diverted due to heavy rainfall in Mumbai
Mumbai: As many as 52 flights were cancelled and another 55 diverted to nearby airports due to the inclement weather and skidding of a SpiceJet aircraft at Mumbai airport Monday night, an official said Tuesday.
Efforts are underway to remove the Boeing 737 aircraft from the runway and restore operations as early as possible, the official said.
A city-bound SpiceJet flight from Jaipur carrying 167 passengers and crew overshot the runway at Mumbai airport Monday night after landing amid heavy rains, which have severely hit normal life in the city over the last two days.
This was the second incident of a SpiceJet aircraft overshooting the runway in the past few days. On June 30, SpiceJet flight from Bhopal veered off the runway at Surat airport due to heavy rainfall and wind.
"A total of 52 flights have been cancelled and another 55 diverted to the nearby airports due to the inclement weather and non-availability of the main runway since Monday late night," said the official.
The Boeing 737-800 aircraft is still stuck on the runway (09x27) and operations are being carried out from the secondary runway ( 14x32), the official said.
"Efforts are underway to remove the aircraft from main runway to bay area," the official said, adding that it may take time to restore operations from the main runway as the continuous rain is hampering the aircraft rescue work.
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Time of renewed hope: PM Modi greets people on Gudi Padwa
New Delhi (PTI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday greeted the people of Maharashtra and Goa on the occasion of Gudi Padwa and said it symbolises the triumph of righteousness over adversity.
In identical letters to the people of the two western states, Modi said that as India continues its journey towards progress and self-reliance, the essence of Gudi Padwa becomes even more relevant.
"On the auspicious occasion of Gudi Padwa, I extend my heartfelt greetings to you and your family. This sacred festival, marking the beginning of the New Year, is a time of renewed hope and the promise of new beginnings," he said.
The prime minister said the 'gudi' (a symbolic flag hoisted at the entrance of households) stands as a symbol of victory, prosperity and optimism.
Gudi Padwa holds deep cultural and historical significance, he said.
"It symbolises the triumph of righteousness over adversity. It is also associated with the onset of spring, the season of rejuvenation," he added.
"Today, as India continues its journey towards progress and self-reliance, the essence of Gudi Padwa becomes even more relevant," Modi said.
The values Gudi Padwa embodies are the very values that guide everyone.
"In a rapidly changing world, these traditions anchor us, reminding us of our roots and what we stand for.
"Let us carry forward the spirit of Gudi Padwa throughout the year with renewed determination and a sense of purpose. May this New Year bring happiness, good health and prosperity to all," the PM said.
