Kathmandu airport closed due to Gen-Z protests in Nepal, several flights affected

 Kathmandu’s airport was partially closed on Tuesday after widespread protests grip the country.

Several flights were cancelled after smoke from fires set up by protesters affected visibility, airport spokesman Rinji Sherpa said.

Air India and IndiGo on Tuesday cancelled their flights between Delhi and Kathmandu as the neighbouring country plunged deeper into chaos after intense pressure from Gen-Z protests that resulted in the death of 19 people.

Air India said in a statement that in view of the current situation prevailing in Kathmandu, "the following flights AI2231/2232, AI2219/2220, AI217/218 and AI211/212 operating on the Delhi-Kathmandu-Delhi route have been cancelled today".

"We are closely monitoring the situation and will share further updates. At Air India, the safety of our passengers and crew remains top priority," said an Air India spokesperson.

IndiGo said that in view of the prevailing situation in Kathmandu, the airport has been closed for operations.

"Consequently, all flights to and from Kathmandu stand suspended as of now. If your travel is impacted, you may conveniently opt for an alternate flight or claim a refund by visiting our website," said the low-cost airline in a statement posted on X.

"We are closely monitoring the developments and coordinating with local authorities to resume operations at the earliest. Customers are advised to keep checking our official channels for the latest advisories and updates. We look forward to the restoration of normal operations and sincerely appreciate your patience and understanding," IndiGo added.

Meanwhile, Nepal's Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli resigned from his post as protests intensified on the second day following the killing of 19 protestors on Monday.

Enraged by the killing of so many people during the first day of the protests organised by Gen-Z demanding accountability for corruption and social media ban, protestors throughout the country started to attack the houses of leaders and government buildings.