Government Steps In After Pahalgam Attack, Covers Full Airfare
After the Pahalgam terror attack, the Maharashtra government has taken quick action to support stranded tourists in Srinagar. They are arranging special flights and will pay the entire cost of travel, ensuring that people can return home safely and without extra burden.
Two Special Flights Set to Depart from Srinagar
On Wednesday, Murlidhar Mohol, Minister of State for Civil Aviation, announced that IndiGo and Air India would run two flights from Srinagar to Mumbai on Thursday. These flights will carry 182 tourists who have been stuck due to rising airfares and limited travel options.
“We are committed to bringing our people home safely. The state government will cover the full airfare,” Mohol said.
Flight Timing and Passenger Details
The flights are scheduled to leave Srinagar around 3 PM and will land in Mumbai at about 6:10 PM. Of the 182 passengers:
- 83 will travel with IndiGo
- 99 will fly with Air India
This move is expected to ease the current crisis and provide much-needed relief.
Airlines Told to Keep Ticket Prices Low
Since the attack, many tourists have been unable to book tickets due to sudden price hikes. As a result, the government has asked airlines to reduce airfares and also waive rescheduling and cancellation fees.
Although there’s no official price cap, Mohol said the airlines have agreed to control ticket prices to help travelers during this difficult time.
Tourists Describe the Struggle with High Fares
Many people stuck in Srinagar have shared their concerns. For instance, Jyoti Zurunge, a resident of Pune, said she was shocked to see flight prices ranging from ₹15,000 to ₹20,000 per ticket.
“High fares have kept many of us stuck here. We’ve been talking to local leaders and government officials. It’s a scary situation,” she said.
Current Airfare Prices to Other Cities
As of now, flight prices from Srinagar remain high:
- ₹15,000–₹20,000 to Pune
- ₹11,000–₹15,000 to Mumbai
- ₹10,000–₹16,000 to Kolkata
- ₹14,000–₹18,000 to Patna
- ₹11,000–₹25,000 to Ahmedabad
These rates are much higher than usual, especially for those trying to return on short notice.
Rebooking Issues Leave Tourists Helpless
Another traveler, Amish Patadiya from Ahmedabad, said he was in Srinagar with five others. While they had a SpiceJet booking, he claimed the airline and booking site were not helping them reschedule.
“We can’t afford new tickets at these prices. We need clear support from airlines during such emergencies,” he said.
Final Words
The Maharashtra government’s decision to provide free flights is a major relief for people caught in a crisis. Moreover, asking airlines to keep fares affordable and waive extra charges shows that quick government action can truly make a difference during tough times.
