New Delhi, Nov 25 (NationPress) - The India Meteorological Department (IMD) announced on Tuesday that the ash clouds resulting from the volcanic eruption in Ethiopia are projected to clear from Indian territory and shift towards China by 7:30 PM.

This volcanic ash plume had caused significant disruptions to flights across the nation on Monday and Tuesday, raising alarms regarding air quality and aviation safety in northern and western India.

The ash plume originated from the Hayli Gubbi volcano in northern Ethiopia, which erupted after being dormant for 12,000 years, generating a colossal ash column that reached approximately 14 kilometers into the atmosphere. High-altitude winds carried the ash cloud eastward over the Red Sea, passing through Yemen and Oman, and further across the Arabian Sea towards the Indian subcontinent.

As per the IMD, on Tuesday, the ash plume traversed over Gujarat, Delhi-NCR, Rajasthan, Punjab, and Haryana. Although the cloud remains primarily at mid-levels of the atmosphere, it has caused temporary flight delays and prompted authorities to issue advisories concerning aviation safety.

Previously, IndiaMetSky Weather indicated that the plume consists predominantly of sulphur dioxide (SO₂) with low to moderate concentrations of volcanic ash.

“The ash plume mainly comprises sulphur dioxide with low to moderate levels of volcanic ash. It is currently extending from the Oman-Arabian Sea region into the plains of North and Central India. While it won't affect AQI levels, it will impact SO₂ levels in the hills of Nepal, the Himalayas, and the adjacent Terai belt of Uttar Pradesh, as some of the material will interact with the hills before moving into China,” the platform noted on X.

The advisory emphasized that while the chances of ashfall over the plains are low, the plume will gradually drift over Delhi, Haryana, and Rajasthan, and there will be no detrimental effects on surface air quality.

Authorities have warned that flights may experience delays or route alterations, and isolated ash particles could make contact with the ground in specific areas.

The IMD’s update brings relief as the plume is expected to exit by 7:30 PM, alleviating immediate worries for northern and western India.

Aviation authorities are closely monitoring the situation to ensure the safety of passengers, while residents in affected regions are advised to stay alert.