Srinagar, Apr 23: Directorate General of Civil Aviation on Wednesday issued an advisory to all airlines to increase number of flights to meet “unexpected” demand of tourists seeking to return to their homes from Kashmir Valley in the aftermath of the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam which left at least 26 people, mainly sightseers, dead.
“In the aftermath of the incident in Pahalgam, there is an unexpected demand from tourists seeking to return to their homes,” reads the advisory by Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
“ In this regard, the airlines are advised to take swift action to increase the number of flights in response to heightened demand and also to ensure uninterrupted connectivity from Srinagar to various destinations across India, facilitating evacuation of stranded tourists,” reads advisory.
“The airlines are also requested to consider waiving cancellation and rescheduling fees and provide all necessary assistance to tourists facing unexpected circumstances and challenges during this difficult time,” it added.
Meanwhile, according to an official statement, Union Minister for Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu spoke to the Home Minister Amit Shah who is presently in the Valley. The Minister is monitoring the situation round the clock, working in close coordination with relevant authorities, it said.
“As part of immediate relief measures, four special flights from Srinagar—two to Delhi and two to Mumbai—have been arranged, with additional flights kept on standby to cater to further evacuation needs,” the statement said.
Ram Mohan Naidu also held an urgent meeting with all airline operators and issued a “strong advisory against “surge pricing”.
“Airlines have been directed to maintain regular fare levels, ensuring that no passenger is burdened during this sensitive time,” the statement said, adding, “Additionally, Ram Mohan Naidu has directed all airlines to extend full cooperation for the transportation of deceased individuals to their respective home states, working in sync with state governments and local authorities.”
The Ministry of Civil Aviation remains on high alert and committed to extending every possible assistance to those affected, the statement added.
