During Operation Sindoor, the Indian military's offensive led to the complete devastation of the sole runway at Pakistan's Rahim Yar Khan Airbase. The extent of the damage is evident as the runway remains non-operational. Pakistan has extended the runway closure for the third time, underscoring the severe impact of the Indian attack.
The recent NOTAM issued by Pakistan confirms that the Rahim Yar Khan Airbase runway will remain closed to flights until August 5. While the notice lacks specific reasons, it mentions ongoing repairs.
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Notice Issued on May 10
The first NOTAM was released on May 10, coinciding with India's aerial attacks under Operation Sindoor. It indicated that the strategic airbase in Punjab would be unavailable for a week. The second NOTAM, issued on June 4, extended the closure to July 4.
Dual Purpose: Military and International Airport
High-resolution satellite images obtained by Aaj Tak reveal a large crater in the runway's center. Additionally, a building at the airbase sustained significant damage. Rahim Yar Khan serves both as a military base and home to Sheikh Zayed International Airport.
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PM Modi Addresses in Rally
This airbase was among the 11 military sites targeted by India in Operation Sindoor, as a retaliatory measure to the Pahalgam terror attack in Kashmir, which resulted in 26 casualties. Following these strikes, Pakistan sought a ceasefire.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing a rally in Bikaner, Rajasthan, sharply criticized Pakistan, mentioning this airbase. He stated, 'Pakistan's Rahim Yar Khan Airbase is still in ICU, uncertain of when it will recover.'
