West Bengal cancels all direct flights from the UK to Kolkata from January 3

West Bengal cancels all direct flights from the UK to Kolkata from January 3. 

The West Bengal government on Thursday (December 30) decided to stop any direct flights that originate from the United Kingdom to Kolkata starting on January 3 due to the Omicron fears.

This step was taken due to an alarming increase in Omicron cases worldwide. Therefore, starting on January 3, 2022, passengers from countries that are not at risk from West Bengal will be required to pass the COVID-19 test upon the day of arrival and at a cost. 

According to the order issued by the government, the passengers will have to make a reservation for the test before their arrival on the plane.

In the past, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee stated that the COVID-19 cases in Kolkata were increasing since it was a point of transit for passengers by planes and trains.

“Most Omicron-related cases have been identified among passengers traveling that originate from the UK. 

Omicron carriers are indeed arriving via international flights. Therefore, the Centre will have to determine whether to impose limitations on flights from countries where the incidence of omicrons is very high,” PTI quoted her as declaring.

West Bengal on Wednesday had registered 1,089 new infections, of which Kolkata has reported 540 new cases, which is a significant increase.

“COVID-19 instances in Kolkata are on them because it is missing the main point of entry for passengers who travel on planes and trains. So I’m requesting everyone to adhere to COVID rules and to wear masks,” The West Bengal CM advised.