Sri Vijaya Puram, Sept. 5: A multi-sector delegation representing fisheries, tourism, transport, travel and other stakeholders in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands has intensified its efforts to address the ongoing crisis of exorbitant airfares and poor flight connectivity affecting the islands.
Following a successful public protest against the steep rise in air ticket prices, the forum has initiated discussions with several senior authorities, including the Director of the Airports Authority of India, the Secretary of Civil Aviation and the Chief Secretary.
The delegation has raised concerns over the serious economic and social impact of high airfares on islanders, businesses and essential sectors.
Demand for Subsidized Seats for Islanders
One of the key proposals put forward by the forum is for the Andaman & Nicobar Administration to underwrite 25 seats on every flight at subsidized rates for island residents.
The representatives pointed out that the government already provides significant subsidies for sea transportation and argued that similar support should be extended to air travel, which remains the primary and fastest mode of connectivity between the islands and mainland India.
Tourism and Fisheries Sectors Hit Hard
The delegation highlighted that the ongoing airfare crisis is severely affecting the tourism industry, with expensive tickets discouraging tourists from visiting the islands.
The fisheries sector has also reportedly suffered major losses due to poor air connectivity. According to the representatives, around 20 tonnes of fish that could be exported daily are being affected, resulting in significant revenue losses and creating uncertainty for hundreds of workers dependent on the industry.
Speakers warned that if immediate steps are not taken, the situation could further impact employment, tourism businesses, transport operators and other sectors dependent on regular air connectivity.
Delegation to Meet MP, LG and Union Civil Aviation Minister
The forum has announced plans to meet the Member of Parliament, the Lieutenant Governor, and the Union Minister of Civil Aviation in New Delhi to press for immediate intervention and sustainable long-term solutions.
The delegation said its objective is to ensure affordable and reliable air connectivity for island residents while also protecting the tourism, fisheries and other industries from further losses.
Representatives of Various Sectors
During the briefing, several representatives from different sectors were identified as part of the delegation and forum.
Bhaskar is leading and coordinating the forum, while Rahma Raju is representing the fisheries sector. Simson is representing the tourism sector, and Ankit is representing cab owners and operators.
Siddiq Bhai and Selam Bhai are representing the MSO, while Salman Bhai has been actively involved in coordinating stakeholders and organizing the initiative.
Gratitude to Media and Chamber of Commerce
The organizers expressed their gratitude to the media fraternity and the Chamber of Commerce for supporting the movement and highlighting the difficulties faced by islanders.
According to the forum, sustained public pressure and media coverage have already resulted in a slight reduction in airfares on some routes. However, the representatives stressed that a permanent and sustainable solution is still urgently needed.
The forum has assured that it will continue its efforts until affordable air travel and improved connectivity become a reality for the people of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
