Kashmir faces year-round airfare hikes, needs regulation: Er Rashid

New Delhi, Mar 28: Member Parliament (MP) from North Kashmir Er Rashid has raised concerns in Parliament about high airfares, airport conditions, and the need for better connectivity to remote areas in Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking in the Lok Sabha, Er Rashid, highlighted the issue of airfare hikes to Kashmir during peak seasons, stating that while airline companies justify price surges during festivals and emergencies, in the Valley such a situation persists throughout the year.
“With the start of the tourist season in March, airfare prices rise. Then, in winter, with snowfall, fares double,” he said, emphasizing the need for airfare regulation.
He also pointed out that airline pricing disproportionately affects the common man, who primarily flies during emergencies but faces sudden fare hikes.
Er Rashid further said that even during tragedies, airlines charge excessively. Recalling an incident from 2012 when he was an MLA, he stated, “Two Bengali workers in my area fell into a well while working. To get their bodies transported, we had to pay five to six times the usual fare.”
He urged the government to ensure that airlines do not profit during such situations.
Er Rashid also raised concerns about high food prices at airports, stating, “Outside, a cup of tea costs Rs 100, but inside the airport, it costs Rs 1000.”
Additionally, he spoke about the workload faced by airline staff and the need for a more humane approach in airport security procedures. “A common man feels as if he is being held captive at the airport,” he said, requesting the government to ensure a more passenger-friendly environment.
Highlighting the transportation issues in remote areas of Kashmir, he requested the government to introduce regular helicopter services to regions like Karna, Gurez, Keran, and Machil, especially during the six months of winter when these areas remain cut off. “If helicopter services are provided, it will be a great help,” he said, adding that the people of Kashmir would be grateful for such an initiative. (KNO)