CM Omar Urges Civil Aviation Ministry to Reconsider Srinagar Airport Closure Plan | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday raised concerns with the Union Government over the proposed closure of Srinagar Airport from October 1 to 16 for maintenance works, urging a review of the schedule to minimise disruption to air connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir.

During a meeting with Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu, the Chief Minister stressed the importance of maintaining uninterrupted air services to the Valley during the peak tourism season.

Abdullah urged the Civil Aviation Ministry to examine the possibility of shortening the maintenance period, carrying out the works in phases, or shifting them to a period of lower travel demand to reduce inconvenience to passengers and the tourism sector.

He also proposed the operation of a limited number of civilian flights from Awantipora Air Force Station during the closure period to ensure continued connectivity for residents, tourists and businesses.

The Chief Minister said sustained air connectivity is crucial for the region’s economy, particularly during the tourism season when visitor arrivals and commercial activity remain at their peak.

The proposed maintenance works at Srinagar Airport are scheduled to take place between October 1 and October 16, prompting concerns over the impact on travel and tourism in the Union Territory.