Guwahati's airport, Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, witnessed a tumultuous scene on Sunday when a section of its ceiling gave way during a sudden downpour, disrupting operations.
The incident led to the diversion of six flights as adverse weather conditions, exacerbated by strong winds, wreaked havoc.
Video footage captured the alarming moment as passengers congregated outside the airport, witnessing the ceiling collapse.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported, with airport authorities attributing the collapse to an overflowing outlet pipe and the fierce winds.
Social media platforms were flooded with videos depicting the deluge inside the airport premises, showcasing workers attempting to manage the situation as rainwater inundated the floors.
Containers strategically placed beneath the leaking ceiling served as makeshift reservoirs.
The storm's impact extended beyond the airport, as uprooted trees obstructed access roads.
Prompt action was taken by airport personnel to clear the blocked route, ensuring smooth passage after a delay of approximately thirty minutes.
Additionally, a portion of the airport roof succumbed to the storm's force.
Assuring passengers of diligent oversight, Chief Airport Officer Utpal Baruah stated his personal involvement in mitigating inconveniences.
"I am personally monitoring the situation so that passengers do not face any inconvenience. Due to the storm and heavy rain, the visibility dropped drastically and we had to divert six flights," he said.
He noted that the storm-induced poor visibility necessitated the diversion of six flights, with carriers such as IndiGo, Air India, and Air India Express redirected to Agartala and Kolkata.
"The visibility has improved and normal operations have resumed. Flights have started landing in Guwahati," he added.