Flight Freeze

Inclement weather conditions in Srinagar on Sunday brought with it a familiar set of challenges for the region. While the sight of snow blanketing the city brought cheers to tourists, the harsh realities of disrupted connectivity overshadowed the charm. All flights at the Srinagar ‘International’ Airport were cancelled on Sunday, and Monday morning saw further delays due to persistent bad weather. These disruptions are not merely inconveniences but highlight a glaring infrastructural deficiency that continues to haunt Kashmir’s air connectivity. As a result, fingers were pointed towards the Airports Authority of India’s (AAI) failure to install the promised upgraded Instrument Landing System (ILS). This system is critical for ensuring safe flight operations under low-visibility conditions, a recurring issue in the Valley during winter months. Despite repeated assurances and missed deadlines, the outdated systems in place remain woefully inadequate to meet the demands of modern air travel. This negligence has led to widespread cancellations, affecting thousands of passengers, including international tourists, Umrah pilgrims, business travellers, students, and patients seeking medical care. The ripple effects of these disruptions have been devastating. Passengers stranded at the airport have missed connecting flights at major hubs, leading to chaotic travel plans and financial losses. The tourism industry, which forms the backbone of Kashmir’s economy, has suffered immensely during what should have been a lucrative period. International business travellers have missed crucial engagements, and local businesses have faced delays in shipments and cancelled meetings, further exacerbating economic woes. The crisis has drawn sharp criticism from the business community, with the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) demanding immediate action from AAI. The KCCI has rightly pointed out that the continued neglect of the airport’s infrastructural needs is unacceptable for a region that aspires to be a premier tourist destination and business hub. They have called for the urgent installation of the modern ILS and an overhaul of the airport’s infrastructure to meet international standards. This situation was entirely avoidable. The people of Kashmir deserve better—better connectivity, better infrastructure, and better governance. The recurring flight disruptions not only inconvenience passengers but also tarnish the image of the region, undermining its potential as a global tourist and business destination. It is imperative for AAI and the concerned authorities to act swiftly and decisively to rectify this long-standing issue. The cost of inaction is too high, both economically and reputationally. Kashmir cannot afford to remain at the mercy of weather conditions and outdated systems any longer. The need for an upgraded Instrument Landing System at Srinagar Airport is more urgent than ever, especially in light of the region’s growing global prominence. Tourism in Kashmir is experiencing a significant boom. Srinagar’s designation as a UNESCO Creative City for Crafts in 2021 and its recognition as a World Craft City have further elevated its status on the global stage. These accolades have positioned the city as a cultural and artistic hub. However, the inability to ensure seamless travel limits the Valley’s potential to fully capitalise on its global recognition.