IndiGo cancels flights; issues travel advisory amid 'Gen Z protests' in Nepal

Nepal Gen Z protest: IndiGo has suspended all flights to and from Kathmandu until 12:00 pm on September 10 in light of the ongoing 'Gen Z protests' in Nepal. The deterioration in the security situation of Nepal and the take over of Army has led to the closure of Tribhuvan International Airport. The protests, sparked by allegations of corruption and the subsequent government ban on social media resulted in at least 19 deaths and over 300 injuries across the country.

Advisory by IndiGo:

IndiGo, releasing a travel advisory on social media platform X, has said:

- IndiGo has cancelled all flights to and from Kathmandu until 12:00 pm on September 10.

- Passengers affected by the flight cancellation can opt for alternate flights or claim a refund through the airline's website.

- As an immediate relief measure, IndiGo has extended waivers on rescheduling and cancellations for traveling to and from Kathmandu until September 12, applicable for bookings made on or before September 9.

Other Airlines Affected:

1)Air India has cancelled all its flights between Delhi and Kathmandu.

2)SpiceJet has also cancelled its flights to and from Kathmandu on September 10.

3)Nepal Airlines has cancelled its flights from Delhi to Kathmandu.

Indian Government has appealed for peace and stability in Nepal and issued advisory for citizens.

"In view of the developing situation in Nepal, Indian citizens are advised to defer travel there until the situation has stabilised. Indian citizens presently in Nepal are advised to shelter in their current places of residence, avoid going out onto the streets and exercise all due caution. They are also advised to follow local safety advisories from Nepal authorities as well as the Embassy of India in Kathmandu. In case of any assistance required, please call the Embassy of India, Kathmandu, on the following helpline numbers: +977 – 980 860 2881 ( WhatsApp call also), +977 – 981 032 6134 ( WhatsApp call also )", Ministry of External Affairs said.

Current Situation:

1) The situation in Nepal remains tense and violent along with disrupted public services.

2) The protests have led to the resignation of Nepal's Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and President Ram Chandra Poudel.

3)The Indian Embassy in Kathmandu has advised Indian citizens to exercise caution and follow local safety advisories.