Daijiworld Media Network - Rajkot

Rajkot, Apr 26: Following the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22 that claimed 26 lives, diplomatic and strategic tensions between India and Pakistan have sharply risen. In response, Pakistan has closed its airspace to Indian aircraft, affecting key international flight routes, especially between Delhi and Dubai.

To address the disruption, Rajkot International Airport has been designated as a stopover point and will now operate 24/7 to accommodate emergency landings. This decision comes after private airlines requested alternative landing arrangements due to the airspace restrictions. The Indian government has approved round-the-clock operations to facilitate technical and medical emergencies, ensuring minimal disruption to airline schedules.

Rajkot Collector confirmed the new operational status, saying, “With Pakistan closing its airspace, several private airlines requested the government for emergency landing provisions. As a result, Rajkot International Airport will remain functional 24 hours a day to accommodate such needs.”

Meanwhile, in the aftermath of the attack, security forces across India, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Commandos, have gone on high alert. In Gujarat's Saurashtra region, heightened security measures have been implemented in Jamnagar and neighboring coastal districts like Dwarka and Morbi. Fishermen's boats are being closely monitored, with strict scrutiny over any potential infiltration or illegal activity from the sea route.

In addition to Marine Police, forces from the Local Crime Branch (LCB), Special Operations Group (SOG), Marine Commandos, and Home Guards have been deployed to reinforce security on Gujarat’s coastline, strengthening efforts to protect the maritime borders amid increasing national security concerns.