Amid escalating protests and serious security concerns, all flights at Nepal’s Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) have been cancelled. The unprecedented move was confirmed by airport authorities on Tuesday.
Operations at the airport came to a halt from 12:45pm (local time) after thick plumes of smoke were spotted near the Koteshwar area, close to the airport perimeter, reports The Kathmandu Post.
Although the airport has not been officially closed, TIA General Manager Hans Raj Pandey stated, “The airport is not closed, and we do not intend to close it.”
However, logistical issues stemming from the unrest have severely disrupted operations. According to local media reports, airline crew members have been unable to reach the airport due to widespread roadblocks and safety concerns, effectively grounding all scheduled flights.
Domestic airlines, including Buddha Air, have suspended all flights citing security reasons.
Tensions escalated dramatically in Nepal as protesters, defying a government-imposed curfew, stormed the headquarters of the country’s largest political party, Nepali Congress, and vandalised the residences of several high-profile politicians. The unrest comes just a day after at least 19 people were killed in violent anti-government demonstrations across the country.
Late Monday night, the government lifted a temporary ban on social media platforms — a move that reignited nationwide protests, particularly among younger citizens. Organisers have described the movement as a “Gen Z uprising,” with thousands taking to the streets in Kathmandu and other major cities.
While the social media ban initially sparked the latest wave of protests, demonstrators say their anger runs deeper. Allegations of systemic corruption, nepotism, soaring unemployment, and government inaction have all fueled public outrage.
In a major blow to the ruling coalition, at least three cabinet ministers have resigned. Protesters are now demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli and a complete overhaul of the current political leadership.
The situation remains volatile, with the government yet to announce any concrete steps to defuse the crisis.
