Violent protests in Nepal over a now-withdrawn social media ban forced the partial closure of Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport, disrupting several Indian flights on Tuesday.
Arrival of planes from the southern side at Kathmandu airport was halted due to poor visibility caused by smoke from fires set by protesters nearby, aviation authority official Gyanendra Bhul was quoted by Reuters as telling.
Tracking data from flightradar24.com showed several Indian flights circling over Nepal while awaiting clearance. Two IndiGo flights – 6E1153 (Delhi–Kathmandu) and 6E1157 (Mumbai–Kathmandu) – were held over the capital before being diverted to Lucknow airport.
In addition, three Air India flights on the Delhi–Kathmandu–Delhi route – AI2231/2232, AI2219/2220 and AI217/218 – were cancelled, an airline spokesperson confirmed, adding that updates will follow as the situation develops.
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Protests Intensify After 19 Deaths
The unrest in Nepal, described as the “protest of Gen Z,” erupted after the government banned several platforms including Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube, and X (formerly Twitter). Although the ban was revoked on Monday, anger spilled into broader demonstrations against alleged government corruption and nepotism.
At least 19 people were killed when protesters clashed with police outside Parliament in New Baneshwor. Demonstrators broke through barbed wires, forced riot police to retreat, and surrounded the Parliament complex. Police responded with tear gas and water cannons but were overpowered.
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On Tuesday, protesters continued defying curfew orders, gathering in Kathmandu to mourn those killed. Local reports and videos showed thick smoke rising from the Parliament building and residences of top leaders, including Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli, being set ablaze. Oli later resigned amid mounting pressure.
Schools in Kathmandu were closed as authorities enforced curfews across the capital and nearby districts.
