Congress Member of Parliament Vivek Tankha has called upon the central government to take immediate steps to make airfares more affordable for Indian citizens traveling on Gulf routes. In a letter addressed to the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Tankha highlighted the exorbitant ticket prices that have made travel to Gulf countries increasingly difficult for common Indians.
High Airfares on Gulf Routes
Tankha pointed out that the airfares on routes to Gulf nations such as the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain have seen a steep rise over the past few years. He noted that despite a significant number of Indians working and living in these countries, the lack of competition among airlines has led to inflated prices.
Impact on Indian Diaspora
The Congress MP emphasized that millions of Indian workers and their families rely on affordable air travel to maintain connections with their homeland. The high fares are not only a financial burden but also affect the emotional well-being of families separated by distance. He urged the government to intervene and ensure that air travel remains accessible to all sections of society.
Call for Government Intervention
Tankha suggested that the government should consider various measures to bring down airfares, including increasing the number of flights on these routes, negotiating bilateral agreements with Gulf countries, and providing subsidies or tax benefits to airlines operating on these sectors. He also called for a review of the current pricing mechanisms to prevent arbitrary fare hikes.
In his letter, Tankha referenced the government's commitment to the welfare of the Indian diaspora and argued that affordable airfares are essential for fulfilling this commitment. He urged the Ministry to take proactive steps to address the issue at the earliest.
Reaction from the Aviation Sector
The aviation industry has yet to respond officially to Tankha's suggestions. However, experts believe that while increased competition could help lower fares, operational costs and airport charges in the region also play a significant role in determining ticket prices. The government's response to this plea is awaited, as it could have significant implications for millions of Indian travelers.
