India closes 32 airports amid growing military conflict with Pakistan

Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated dramatically following a series of cross-border attacks, prompting India to shut down 32 civilian airports as a security precaution.

The closure, announced by India’s Ministry of Civil Aviation, will remain in effect until 5:29 AM on May 15, Caliber.Az reports via Indian media.

The airports affected by the shutdown include Adampur, Ambala, Amritsar, Awantipur, Bathinda, Bhuj, Bikaner, Chandigarh, Halwara, Hindon, Jaisalmer, Jammu, Jamnagar, Jodhpur, Kandla, Kangra (Gaggal), Keshod, Kishangarh, Kullu-Manali (Bhuntar), Leh, Ludhiana, Mundra, Naliya, Pathankot, Patiala, Porbandar, Rajkot (Hirasar), Sarsawa, Shimla, Srinagar, Thoise, and Uttarlai.

India’s Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has instructed all airlines and airports nationwide to tighten security protocols. Mumbai International Airport also issued an advisory urging travellers to arrive early due to increased screening procedures amid heightened threat levels.

The recent escalation was triggered by India’s launch of “Operation Sindoor” in the early hours of May 7. During the operation, the Indian Air Force conducted strikes on targets in Pakistan’s Punjab province and areas of Pakistan-administered Kashmir. New Delhi described the targets as terrorist infrastructure.

In response, the Pakistani government condemned the Indian action as an “act of war” and authorised retaliatory strikes. Pakistan’s National Security Council has sanctioned further military measures. Both nations have reported dozens of casualties, including dead and wounded on both sides.

On May 10, Pakistan launched a major military operation reportedly in retaliation for Indian airstrikes earlier in the week. The Pakistani Army has carried out a series of high-precision strikes targeting critical Indian military installations. Islamabad claims the strikes have caused significant casualties among Indian forces and that operations are ongoing.

By Tamilla Hasanova