Srinagar, Apr 21 (KNS): PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI), India's apex trade body had urged the government to resume International flights at the Srinagar international airport.
In a statement to Kashmir News Service (KNS), PHDCCI Kashmir chairperson, Baldev Singh Raina said that they are hopeful to see a succession of direct flight services, both for international and domestic travellers and also resuming of international flights through Air Bubble Arrangement could make it increasingly attractive for International Tourists.
He added that almost every day domestic departures from Srinagar get disturbed due to long queues at CISF security gates with passengers jostling and struggling to reach their boarding gates on time.
“With the onset of Tourist season, there has been a surge in passenger traffic and a sudden spike is being witnessed at Srinagar Airport. We also understand the security and safety of Visitors are of utmost priority and our endeavour should be to continue to not compromise on these critical aspects, but we suggest that the Airport authority needs to provide solutions to the traffic jams and hassles the travellers face while reaching the airport.”
He said that the AAI needs to set up additional check-points and Body Scanners at the entry Gate of the airport.
“We also request the AAI for addressing the long pending demands of Premium lounge at Srinagar Airport, Express Security Check, Installation of Sanitary Pad vending Machines, Baby Care rooms, Baggage Wrap Facility, Lost & Found Desk, Valet Parking, Installation of full Passenger Vehicle Inspection System at Main Gate, Terminal expansion, Runway upgrading to a better ILS to ensure flight operations in winter,” he said.
He added that it is high time to ensure a state of art infrastructure at the Srinagar International Airport under “International Hub” Classification of Airport Authority of India.
“We also seek operation of red-eye flights to some of the domestic destinations for off-peak hours,” he said. (KNS)