New Delhi, India – A massive volcanic ash cloud originating from Ethiopia’s Hayli Gubbi volcano, which erupted after nearly 10,000 years of dormancy, has drifted across the Arabian Sea and reached parts of northern and western India. The plume, carrying volcanic ash and high levels of sulphur dioxide, first entered Indian airspace over Gujarat before swiftly moving towards states including Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Delhi, Haryana, and Punjab.

The eruption, which occurred approximately 800 km northeast of Addis Ababa, sent thick columns of ash and gas up to 14 kilometres into the sky. Meteorological authorities confirmed the plume is tracking at high altitudes between 15,000 and 45,000 feet significantly above the ground, meaning surface-level Air Quality Index (AQI) is not expected to be severely impacted. However, residents in the affected regions have been warned that skies could appear “darker and hazier than usual.”

In response, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued an urgent advisory to airlines and airports. Carriers have been instructed to avoid the affected airspace and adjust flight plans, leading to a number of cancellations by international and domestic airlines. While the eruption itself has ceased, the persistent, fast-moving ash cloud poses a temporary but significant risk of disruption to air traffic routes across the region.