A volcanic eruption in Ethiopia after 12,000 years has caused a massive ash cloud to drift across parts of Africa and reach India, impacting air traffic and visibility. The Hayli Gubbi volcano erupted on Sunday, producing an ash plume that traveled eastward at speeds of 100-120 km/h, crossing Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Delhi-NCR, and Punjab by Monday evening. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported the ash cloud's altitude above 10 km, indicating limited surface-level air pollution impact but potential temporary effects on air quality and temperature. The ash contains volcanic ash, sulfur dioxide, and small particles of glass or rock, darkening the sky and affecting aviation safety. Several flights operated by airlines such as Akasa Air and IndiGo were diverted or canceled due to the ash cloud, with Indian authorities issuing advisories to airlines to avoid affected regions and monitor the situation closely. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) advised strict adherence to operational procedures, immediate reporting of any engine performance issues or cabin smoke, and continuous monitoring of volcanic ash movement using satellite imagery and meteorological data. Airports in affected areas were instructed to inspect runways and suspend operations if contamination was detected. The ash cloud's presence has also raised concerns about increased air pollution, especially in Delhi, where the air quality index (AQI) was already in the 'severe' range at 382. Experts warn that the volcanic ash, combined with ongoing regional pollution sources like stubble burning and industrial emissions, could temporarily worsen air quality. Authorities expect the impact to last only a few hours as the plume moves further east, but the situation remains dynamic, with potential for more severe disruptions if the ash settles over major cities like Delhi and Jaipur. Monitoring and safety protocols are being diligently followed to ensure aviation safety and public health during this unprecedented event.