The Balochistan Assembly has formally expressed strong objections to the substantial differences in airfares for flights operating to and from Quetta, highlighting what members call discriminatory pricing practices affecting the province's residents.
Assembly Takes Official Stand Against Pricing Disparity
During a recent session, the provincial assembly unanimously adopted a resolution that voices serious concerns about the significant variation in air ticket prices for Quetta routes compared to other domestic destinations. The resolution specifically pointed out that passengers traveling to and from Balochistan's capital are being charged considerably higher fares for similar distances.
The assembly's resolution emphasized that this pricing disparity creates financial burden on residents of Balochistan and constitutes an unfair practice that limits mobility and economic opportunities for the province's population. Members argued that air travel should be equally accessible to all citizens regardless of their geographic location.
Specific Concerns and Demands for Regulatory Action
The resolution specifically calls upon the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to immediately address this issue and take concrete measures to standardize airfares across domestic routes. Assembly members stressed that the regulatory body should ensure pricing transparency and fairness in the aviation sector.
According to the discussions in the assembly, the price differences are particularly noticeable on routes connecting Quetta to major Pakistani cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. The resolution highlighted that passengers flying similar distances to other destinations pay significantly less, raising questions about the pricing mechanisms employed by airlines.
Broader Implications for Regional Connectivity
This move by the Balochistan Assembly reflects growing concerns about regional development and connectivity in Pakistan's largest province. The representatives argued that inflated airfares effectively limit access to essential services, business opportunities, and educational facilities for Balochistan's residents.
The resolution comes amid ongoing discussions about improving transportation infrastructure in Balochistan, which has historically faced challenges in connectivity compared to other regions. Assembly members emphasized that fair airfare pricing is crucial for the province's integration with the rest of the country and for promoting economic activities.
The house has demanded that the CAA implement effective monitoring of airfare structures and ensure that airlines do not engage in discriminatory pricing practices that disproportionately affect certain regions. The resolution also calls for regular reviews of fare structures to maintain fairness in domestic air travel.
This development marks a significant step in addressing regional disparities in transportation costs and could potentially lead to broader reforms in Pakistan's domestic aviation pricing policies if regulatory authorities take appropriate action.
