TSG Bhasker Appeals for Regulation of High Airfares in A&N

Port Blair, India Jul 12, 2026 ALN: Mr. TSG Bhasker, Chairman of the Campaign Committee of the and Territorial Congress Committee (ANTCC), has reached out to the Union Minister for Civil Aviation, calling for immediate action to address the exorbitant airfares charged by airlines operating between Sri Vijaya Puram and major mainland cities. This appeal comes at a time when the issue of air travel affordability has become increasingly pressing, particularly for residents of the and , who rely heavily on air transport for their connectivity with the rest of India.

In his representation, Mr. Bhasker emphasized that airfares on routes connecting Sri Vijaya Puram with cities such as Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam have become prohibitively expensive for the average citizen. He shared his recent travel experience, revealing that a one-way airfare from Delhi to Port Blair for two passengers amounted to ₹73,662, highlighting the alarming increase in ticket prices. Such exorbitant fares not only strain the budgets of families but also inhibit the mobility of individuals who need to travel for educational, medical, or employment purposes.

Mr. Bhasker pointed out the inequity in air travel costs, noting that Indian citizens often pay more for domestic flights to the and than for international flights to various foreign destinations. This pricing structure places an unbearable financial burden on island residents, who rely solely on air travel, and has negatively impacted tourism, leading to a decline in visitor numbers. The disparity in pricing raises questions about the fairness of airline practices, especially given that the and are a popular tourist destination known for their natural beauty and unique cultural heritage.

He stressed that the people of the and depend entirely on air connectivity for essential services such as higher education, specialized medical treatment, employment, and family emergencies. Students studying on the mainland and patients needing advanced medical care in cities like Chennai, Kolkata, and Delhi are among those most adversely affected by the steep airfares. The reliance on air travel for critical services underscores the need for a more equitable fare structure that considers the unique challenges faced by island residents.

Moreover, many families find themselves in dire financial situations, forced to spend exorbitant amounts to transport critically ill patients by air, including those requiring stretchers. Some families have even had to sell their properties to cover travel expenses, a situation Mr. Bhasker described as financially devastating and unjust for citizens living in a Union Territory where air transport is the primary means of connectivity. This reality paints a grim picture of the sacrifices that families must make in times of crisis, further emphasizing the urgent need for fare regulation.

Questioning the lack of fare regulation, Mr. Bhasker noted that while the government sets Maximum Retail Prices (MRP) for basic commodities like packaged drinking water, there is no cap on airline fares, despite the essential nature of air connectivity for the and . He also expressed concern over airlines reducing flight frequencies during the off-season, further limiting seat availability and driving up ticket prices. This seasonal fluctuation in flight availability exacerbates the challenges faced by residents, as they are often left with fewer options and higher costs during critical travel periods.

In his letter, Mr. Bhasker urged the Ministry of Civil Aviation to implement immediate measures, including:

• Directing airlines operating to and from the and to maintain reasonable and affordable fares year-round.
• Establishing a maximum ceiling on airfares for all routes connecting Port Blair with mainland cities to prevent arbitrary fare increases.
• Increasing the frequency of flights and promoting greater competition among airlines to lower ticket prices.
• Introducing concessional fares for patients traveling to the mainland for medical treatment.
• Operating chartered flights during peak travel seasons to accommodate increased passenger demand.

Mr. Bhasker concluded by stating that air travel for the residents of the and is not a luxury but an essential service and the only reliable means of connectivity with the mainland. He expressed hope that the Ministry of Civil Aviation would act swiftly to regulate airfare pricing and protect the interests of the islanders and tourists from excessive airfare burdens. The call for action reflects a broader concern about the accessibility of air travel in India, particularly for regions that are geographically isolated and dependent on limited transport options.

The implications of Mr. Bhasker’s appeal extend beyond immediate fare regulation. The high cost of air travel not only affects individuals but also has far-reaching consequences for the local economy, particularly in sectors such as tourism and health care. The and have significant potential for tourism, which could be stifled by high airfares that deter visitors. Furthermore, local businesses that rely on tourism may suffer from reduced foot traffic and spending, leading to a ripple effect throughout the community.

In addition to economic factors, the social implications of high airfares cannot be overlooked. Families facing financial hardship due to travel costs may find themselves unable to visit relatives, attend important events, or seek necessary medical care. This can lead to a deterioration of social ties and community cohesion, further compounding the challenges faced by island residents.

The issue of airfare regulation is not unique to the and ; it is part of a larger national conversation about the accessibility of air travel across India. As the country continues to develop its aviation infrastructure and expand its network of air routes, the need for fair pricing practices becomes increasingly important. Ensuring that air travel remains affordable for all citizens is essential for fostering economic growth, enhancing social connectivity, and promoting regional development.

In conclusion, Mr. Bhasker's appeal for the regulation of high airfares in the and highlights a pressing issue that affects the lives of many residents. The need for immediate action from the Ministry of Civil Aviation is clear, as the current fare structures not only create financial burdens but also threaten the overall well-being of the island community. As discussions around airfare regulation continue, the voices of those directly impacted must be heard to ensure that air travel remains a viable option for all.