KCCI slams 'burdensome' Srinagar Airport entry fee changes

Srinagar, Aug 17: The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI) has strongly opposed the recent changes to the parking policy at Srinagar Airport, citing increased burden, inconvenience, and harassment for tourists, travellers, and locals alike.

In a communication, KCCI reminded the Airport Authority of India (AAI) about a meeting held on August 5, 2024, where the issues of arbitrary charges and harassment of commercial and private vehicles were discussed in detail. The chamber also mentioned a subsequent meeting with the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir on August 6 who assured support in resolving the controversy.

Despite assurances that the matter of multiple entry and parking charges would be partly resolved, with remaining issues to be addressed after Independence Day celebrations, KCCI reports that the situation has only worsened. The chamber has received numerous complaints from commercial operators and private travellers about unjustified and arbitrary charges being forcibly collected.

KCCI has reiterated its demand for the immediate removal of the newly installed toll post, citing long waits and traffic jams that cause significant inconvenience to tourists and travellers. The chamber argues that this system is unique to Srinagar Airport and is damaging Kashmir's reputation, especially as tourism activity has recently revived after decades of decline.

Reports suggest that if the drop time issue is not reviewed, commercial transporters may discontinue their services beyond Gate No. 1 / Security Check Gate. Local travellers have expressed similar concerns.

KCCI emphasises that a toll post beyond a parking area is unheard of elsewhere in India or the world, questioning the circumstances under which it was implemented. The chamber believes this policy contradicts the "One Nation One Policy" principle and is discriminatory towards Kashmir.

Labelling the new policy as a potential "KASHMIR ENTRY CESS," KCCI demands its immediate withdrawal and the restoration of the previous policy. The chamber remains hopeful for a swift resolution to this issue, which they see as crucial for maintaining Kashmir's appeal to visitors and supporting local businesses.