Srinagar, June 06: Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP) has expressed deep concern over the exorbitant airfares, saying this is plaguing the region, causing distress among the local population and hampering tourist influx to Kashmir.
The DPAP spokesperson Waseem Yaqoob in a statement called upon the government to take strict measures against the individuals responsible for these skyrocketing prices and implement a mechanism to cap airfares, ensuring relief for all stakeholders.
The situation in Jammu & Kashmir demands immediate attention as the rising airfares have created substantial difficulties for not only tourists but also students, patients, and businesspeople who frequently travel from Srinagar, he said, adding, “The arbitrary price hikes have placed an unfair burden on individuals seeking better educational opportunities, medical treatment, and business prospects. Furthermore, the local airfares have far surpassed those of several overseas destinations, leading to growing demands for regulating domestic airfares.”
“The scenic beauty and charm of Kashmir attract a multitude of visitors during the summer season. However, a significant portion of potential tourists finds it financially unviable to pay airfares ranging from 20,000 to 30,000 rupees,” Waseem said, adding that the party firmly believes that implementing a fare cap on this route would alleviate the financial strain faced by the common people and enhance accessibility to this picturesque region.
The DPAP spokesperson urged the government to prioritize the interests of the local population, tourists, students, patients, and businesspeople alike. “By taking immediate and decisive action to control airfares, the government can pave the way for a prosperous future, fostering tourism, and ensuring equal opportunities for all,” he said.
‘People of Gool have resolved to vote DPAP’
DPAP on Tuesday held a party workers’ convention in the Dharam area of the Banihal constituency where hundreds of workers participated, the party statement issued here said. The convention was presided over by the senior party leadership including Vice Chairman G M Saroori, R S Chib General Secretary and Chief Spokesperson Salman Nizami.
On the occasion, the workers resolved to vote for the DPAP and reposed full faith in party chairman Ghulam Nabi Azad, the statement said, adding, “The workers hoped if Mr Azad is back to power again with his party, Gool and especially Dharam will get all projects, it requires.”
