Tensions between India and Pakistan have risen sharply after the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed the lives of 26 innocent civilians. In response to the situation, Pakistan has announced the suspension of all domestic flights to the northern cities of Gilgit and Skardu, as per reports.
This decision was taken after a review of airspace safety protocols, and all other flights to the northern areas have also been halted as a precaution.
The Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority has also started strict monitoring of all foreign flights, especially those coming from or passing through Indian airspace. Authorities have been asked to thoroughly check every inbound foreign aircraft. This step comes amid fears of further escalation between the two countries.
Following a high-level meeting of Pakistan’s National Security Committee, Islamabad decided to take several retaliatory measures against India.
These include banning Indian airlines from using Pakistani airspace and declaring Indian defence and security advisors at the Pakistan High Commission as Persona Non Grata.
Pakistan has also responded to India’s decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty and visa issuance under the SAARC agreement by blocking its airspace for Indian carriers.
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Airlines such as Air India, IndiGO, and Akasa Air have been affected, along with Indian military and VIP flights.
To make this official, Pakistan issued a Notice for Airmen (NOTAM), stating that the ban on Indian aircraft will last for at least one month.
Meanwhile, in a late-night video message on April 30, Pakistan’s Information Minister Attaullah Tarar warned that there is a possibility of an Indian military strike within the next 24 to 36 hours. Currently, the situation remains tense as both nations prepare for possible further developments.
