New Delhi: In the aftermath of the tragic terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, the Union Government has initiated a comprehensive response to safeguard and assist affected tourists and grieving families.
Union Minister for Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu has taken swift action, personally coordinating with the Home Minister Amit Shah and overseeing relief efforts around the clock.
As a part of emergency evacuation measures, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has arranged four special flights from Srinagar, two to Delhi and two to Mumbai, with more flights on standby to accommodate stranded passengers.
The Minister also chaired an urgent meeting with airline operators, where a stern advisory was issued against any attempt at surge pricing during this sensitive period. Airlines have been directed to maintain standard fare levels and extend logistical support to the families of the deceased for transporting bodies to their home states.
An advisory issued by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) further instructed all airlines to ramp up operations out of Srinagar, increase flight frequency to meet the sudden rise in outbound demand and waive cancellation and rescheduling charges for all affected passengers.
“The goal is to ensure uninterrupted connectivity and facilitate the safe evacuation of stranded tourists,” the DGCA stated in the circular dated 23 April.
The Ministry of Tourism has also called upon travel industry stakeholders, including OTAs like MakeMyTrip, Yatra, ClearTrip and major accommodation providers, to waive cancellation fees and provide all possible support to affected travellers. “Your support is greatly appreciated,” said Tourism Secretary V Vidyavathi in a communication addressed to travel and hospitality industry leaders.
At the operational level, authorities at Srinagar Airport have mobilised significant on-ground support. A dedicated control room has been set up to manage passenger movement and coordination with airlines. Grieving families of the Pahalgam tragedy are being assisted with dignity in reserved lounges, while refreshments and shelter have been arranged outside the terminal for those waiting. Despite the crisis, flight operations are being maintained smoothly to avoid congestion at the airport.
Across the country, airports including Kolkata, Chennai, Pune, Raipur, Indore, Vishakhapatnam, and Bhubaneswar have also put in place arrangements for dignified handover of mortal remains. State governments, along with CISF and local police, are working together to facilitate tributes by VIPs and ensure proper coordination with families.
“The Ministry of Civil Aviation remains on high alert and is committed to extending every possible assistance to those affected,” the Civil Aviation Ministry said in a statement.
The coordinated efforts between central and state authorities reflect a determined national response aimed at helping citizens through this tragedy with compassion, dignity, and urgency.
