NEW DELHI: Multiple Bomb Threats Disrupt Flights and Rail Services, Prompting Emergency Measures
A series of bomb threats on Monday caused significant disruptions to both air and rail travel, resulting in flight diversions and heightened security protocols. Several flights, including a New York-bound Air India flight and IndiGo flights to Jeddah and Muscat, along with the Mumbai-Howrah Mail train, were impacted by these threats, triggering swift emergency responses.
Air India Flight to New York Diverted to Delhi
An Air India flight (AI119), carrying 239 passengers from Mumbai to New York, was diverted to Delhi following a reported bomb threat. The plane made an emergency landing at Indira Gandhi International Airport, where all passengers were safely evacuated.
According to a senior police officer involved in the operation, “The aircraft is currently stationed at Indira Gandhi International Airport, and all standard safety protocols are being followed to ensure the safety of passengers and crew.”
The threat, allegedly communicated via a tweet, is under investigation. Authorities conducted a thorough search of the aircraft to confirm that no explosive materials were present. In a statement, Air India confirmed the diversion, citing a “specific security alert” from the government’s security regulatory committee. “All passengers have disembarked safely and are at the Delhi airport terminal. We are working to minimize the inconvenience caused to our guests by this unexpected disruption,” the airline said.
Bomb Threats Impact IndiGo Flights to Jeddah and Muscat
Two IndiGo flights were also targeted by bomb threats on Monday. Flight 6E 56 from Mumbai to Jeddah and Flight 6E 1275 from Mumbai to Muscat were moved to an isolated bay for security checks.
IndiGo confirmed that all safety protocols were followed to ensure the well-being of passengers. Flight 6E 1275, originally scheduled to depart at 2:00 am, was delayed and took off at 9:00 am. It is expected to reach Muscat by 9:45 am local time. Meanwhile, Flight 6E 56 to Jeddah, scheduled for departure at 2:05 am, remained grounded as security checks continued.
Bomb Scare on Mumbai-Howrah Mail Train
The disruptions extended to rail travel when the Mumbai-Howrah Mail (train number 12809) received a bomb threat early Monday morning. The message warned of a timer bomb onboard. The train was stopped at Jalgaon station at around 4:00 am, where a thorough security inspection was conducted.
After an extensive search, no suspicious objects were found, and the train was allowed to resume its journey. Central Railway’s Chief Public Relations Officer confirmed the incident, stating that authorities handled the situation promptly to prevent panic and ensure safety.
Conclusion
The series of bomb threats on Monday created significant disruptions across multiple transportation sectors, prompting intensive security inspections and delays. While no explosives were found, the incidents highlight the importance of vigilant security measures in the face of such threats. Investigations are ongoing to determine the source of the bomb threats.