On Saturday, June 29, 2024, a canopy at the passenger pickup and drop area outside the Rajkot airport terminal collapsed amidst heavy rains, although fortunately, no injuries or fatalities were reported from the incident site. This incident in Gujarat occurred a day after a similar collapse at the forecourt canopy of Terminal 1 at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, which tragically resulted in one fatality and eight injuries. Operations at Terminal 1 remain suspended pending further assessments and repairs.
Rajkot Airport: Weather Conditions and Response:
Heavy rains have been lashing various parts of Gujarat as the southwest monsoon progresses across the state. In response to the adverse weather, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has been deployed in several districts including Kutch, Rajkot, Devbhoomi Dwarka, Gir Somnath, Bhavnagar, Narmada, and Valsad to assist in potential rescue and relief efforts.
Safety Measures and Concerns:
The consecutive incidents of canopy collapse at major airports underscore concerns over infrastructure safety during extreme weather events. Authorities are urged to review and reinforce structural integrity measures to mitigate risks posed by heavy rains and gusty winds.
Continued Monitoring and Action:
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation in Rajkot and other affected districts, ensuring swift responses to any further incidents or emergencies arising from the ongoing monsoon conditions. Residents and travelers are advised to stay informed about weather updates and adhere to safety protocols issued by local authorities.
