Windy weather forces diversion of flights

Karachi: At least three international flights were diverted and university examinations were postponed on Thursday due to unfavourable weather conditions caused by strong winds in Karachi.

Gusty winds blew at speeds of up to 37 kilometres per hour accompanied by heavy dusts, and disrupting aviation traffic on Thursday morning.

A Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) spokesman said an advisory was issued to the airlines to regulate their flights in accordance with their aircraft’s adaptability to the severe weather.

Earlier in the morning, three international flights were diverted to other destinations because of the gusty winds.

An Oman Airline flight was diverted to Ahmedabad city in India, an Iranian Air flight was sent to Zahedan, an Iranian city, whereas an Emirates flight was re-routed to Muscat.

However, a Saudi Airlines flight landed at the Karachi airport safely. The spokesman said the pilots of the flights were advised to themselves judge as to whether their aircraft could land or not. However, the landing of flights was not stopped.

Meanwhile, Karachi University had to postpone examinations for B.Com students, in view of the tough weather conditions in the city.

The Metrological Office said the minimum temperature remained 12 degree Celsius but the strong winds added to the chill factor, which was why people were feeling the colder weather.

The day’s maximum temperature was recorded at 23 degree Celsius

People of the city, who were yearning for winter, got out of their homes in picnicking mood. This tropical city has a very brief winter season that too is linked to westward weather variation and the winds blowing down from the Siberian region.