In the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack, the Union Civil Aviation Ministry has intervened to prevent a drastic increase in air fares from Srinagar. Minister Rammohan Naidu issued strict instructions to airlines to keep ticket prices in check, as fares for flights to major cities like Delhi and Mumbai surged beyond Rs. 20,000 following the attack.
Rammohan Naidu confirmed that the ministry is closely monitoring ticket prices to ensure that they remain reasonable. Additionally, he stated that additional flights would be provided to facilitate the safe evacuation of stranded tourists. Four extra flights, two each to Delhi and Mumbai, were initially arranged, followed by three more flights on Wednesday to ensure sufficient capacity.
Airlines, including IndiGo and SpiceJet, have waived fees for cancellations and changes to travel dates, demonstrating solidarity during this crisis. The ministry also worked to expand facilities at Srinagar airport, where 3,337 passengers were flown out between 6 am and 12 pm on Wednesday. To accommodate the increased passenger traffic, food, water, and extra tents have been set up for waiting travelers.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) also issued an advisory to airlines to increase flights from Srinagar to ensure uninterrupted connectivity for tourists. With these measures, the central government aims to provide maximum assistance to those affected by the recent attack while ensuring smooth travel from the region.
