Bali airport closed down due to volcanic eruption; Indian embassy opens helpdesk for stranded Indians

Bali, June 29: Bali closed its Ngurah Rai International Airport following a volcanic eruption on the Indonesian resort island that sent thick smoke and ash billowing 2,000 meters into the air. The disruption has affected nearly 75000 passengers as a total 446 flights have been canceled for departure and arrival.

 

Airport spokesperson Yanus Suprayogi said the airport was closed at 3 AM local time and possible extension of the airport closure would be reviewed at 7 PM today.

Due to the closure of the airport, Consulate General of India in Bali has started a helpdesk booth in the airport for the stranded Indian Nationals over there. Also, they have given assistance number +62-8113867270.

The officials said the eruption of Mount Agung in eastern Bali yesterday has triggered at least 48 flight cancellations including those operated by Malaysia-based Air Asia and Australia's Jetstar.

 

Despite the eruption, the volcano's status has not been raised by Indonesia's volcanology agency and remained at an alert level, while the Volcano Observatory Notice for Aviation has issued an orange level warning.