DR.FIAZ MAQBOOL FAZILI
The serene and picturesque Kashmir Valley, often referred to as “Paradise on Earth,” has long been a coveted destination for tourists, a sanctuary for students seeking higher education, and a vital connection point for its residents to the rest of India and the world. However, in recent years, the exorbitant airfare rates to and from Kashmir have raised concerns, posing significant challenges to the region’s tourism, education, and overall economic vitality. This piece explores the ramifications of these inflated airfares, compares them with other sectors, highlights who should be held accountable, and proposes actionable solutions.
The Current Scenario: An Unaffordable Necessity- Airfares to and from Kashmir have reached unprecedented levels, especially during peak seasons, festivals, or emergencies. It is not uncommon for tickets between Srinagar and major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, or Bangalore to cost more than international flights covering significantly longer distances. For instance, a one-way ticket from Srinagar to Delhi can sometimes exceed ₹15,000, while an international flight from Delhi to Dubai or Singapore may cost less. This disparity raises fundamental questions about pricing mechanisms, regulatory oversight, and the role of airlines in ensuring equitable access to air travel for all citizens.
Impact on Kashmir’s Tourism Industry; Tourism is the lifeblood of Kashmir’s economy, contributing significantly to employment and revenue generation. The airfares’ spike has deterred domestic and international tourists from visiting the region, leading to a sharp decline in visitor numbers. Tourists who would otherwise flock to the Valley’s lush meadows, tranquil lakes, and snow-capped mountains are opting for more affordable destinations within India or abroad.
Key Consequences: 1.Economic Decline: The tourism sector supports thousands of families, from hoteliers and shikara owners to handicraft artisans and transport operators. A reduction in tourist inflow directly impacts their livelihoods.2.Loss of Competitiveness: Kashmir’s positioning as a premium tourist destination is compromised when it becomes more expensive than international locations like Thailand or Maldives.3. Seasonal Disruptions: Events like Tulip Festival or winter sports in Gulmarg suffer reduced attendance, affecting the seasonal boost the economy typically enjoys.4. Impact on Students ,Patients and Professionals- For Kashmiri students pursuing education in cities across India, high airfares are a severe burden. Similarly, desperate patients who can’t take road or train trips ,are already strained financially belong to middle-income families and rely on affordable travel to return home during vacations or emergencies. The steep prices limit their mobility and exacerbate feelings of isolation. Similarly, professionals working outside Kashmir face challenges in maintaining family connections. The financial strain discourages frequent visits, leading to social and emotional disconnect.
Comparison with Other Sectors: When compared to other domestic and international routes in India, the airfare hike for Kashmir is disproportionately high. A flight from Delhi to Bangalore, covering almost twice the distance as Srinagar to Delhi, often costs significantly less. This discrepancy cannot be justified by operational costs alone, as airlines serving Kashmir also benefit from subsidies and tax incentives. Moreover, the fares surpass those of several international routes, questioning the fairness and logic behind such pricing structures.
Root Causes of the Airfare Hike: While interacting with many tourists related business persons I could sum up to several factors contribute to the steep airfares. Unchallenged Competition: Some airlines operate flights to and from Kashmir, creating a monopolistic environment. High Demand and Seasonal Exploitation: Airlines capitalize on peak travel periods, such as festivals, weddings, or emergencies, to hike prices. Infrastructure Constraints: Srinagar Airport has limited capacity, and weather disruptions often lead to flight cancellations, reducing supply and increasing demand. Lack of Regulatory Oversight: The absence of stringent price control mechanisms allows airlines to set fares arbitrarily. Due to non-availability of fast moving trains like “vande mataram ,”the time consuming exhaustive trip would make commuters to take high cost trip
Who Should Be Held Accountable? A. Airlines: While airlines operate as profit-driven entities, their exploitative pricing strategies disregard the socio-economic realities of Kashmir’s residents and stakeholders.B.Civil Aviation Authority:The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is tasked with ensuring fair pricing and service quality. Its failure to regulate airfares for Kashmir points to a lack of accountability. C.State and Central Governments: Both governments share responsibility for addressing this issue. The lack of policy intervention and infrastructure investment reflects poor prioritization of Kashmiri citizens’ needs.
Proposed Solutions: To address the airfare hike effectively, a multi-pronged approach is necessary: 1. Enhancing Competition: Encouraging more airlines to operate flights to and from Kashmir can break the monopolistic hold and drive down prices. Incentives such as reduced landing fees and tax breaks can attract new players to the sector.2. Regulating Airfare Caps:The DGCA should impose fare caps during peak seasons and emergencies to prevent exploitation. Transparent pricing mechanisms can ensure affordability without compromising airlines’ profitability.3. Improving Infrastructure.Expanding Srinagar Airport’s capacity and equipping it with advanced technology to handle adverse weather conditions can increase flight frequency and reduce disruptions.4. Subsidizing Air Travel.Government-subsidized flights, particularly for students, patients, and low-income families, can ensure equitable access. Initiatives like UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) should be extended to cover more routes to and from Kashmir. 5. Promoting Alternative Connectivity. Developing efficient rail and road networks like the New Delhi to Srinagar Vande Bharat Sleeper train is set to begin operations in January 2025, offering a modern, semi-high-speed rail . can provide viable alternatives to air travel. The completion of the Udhampur-Baramulla rail link (Vande Bharat will significantly reduce reliance on expensive flights. 6. Strengthening Public Advocacy. Civil society organizations and stakeholders in tourism, education, and commerce must collectively advocate for fair pricing policies. Public awareness campaigns can amplify the issue and pressurize authorities to act.
The exorbitant airfares to and from Kashmir are more than just an economic challenge—they represent a significant humanitarian issue. These inflated prices severely impact the lives of Kashmir’s predominantly low- and middle-income population, creating barriers for students seeking education, professionals pursuing careers, and families maintaining connections with loved ones. Additionally, high airfares hinder tourism, which is a vital source of livelihood for thousands in the region, further straining the local economy.
Kashmir’s geographical isolation makes air travel a necessity rather than a luxury, especially during winter when road connectivity is frequently disrupted. The financial burden of these fares exacerbates the challenges faced by residents already grappling with issues like unemployment, limited resources, and an underdeveloped infrastructure.This pressing matter requires a collaborative approach involving airlines, regulatory bodies, and government authorities to address the root causes of high airfares, such as monopolistic practices, lack of competition, and limited flight availability. Subsidies for residents, transparent pricing regulations, and incentives for additional airlines to operate in the region can make travel more affordable. Ensuring equitable access to air travel will not only ease financial hardships but also strengthen Kashmir’s social and economic connectivity with the rest of the world.The plea for equitable air travel is not merely a call for convenience but a desperate cry for justice, fairness, and inclusivity for the people of Kashmir. It is time for policymakers and regulators to prioritize this issue, recognizing its profound impact on the region’s socio-economic fabric.
The Author besides being a Medical doctor at Mubarak hospital , is very active in positive perception management of various moral, social and religious issues. He can be reached at drfiazfazili@gmail.com & twitter
