Aviation Woes: Connectivity Concerns in Kolkata and Himachal Pradesh

Two Rajya Sabha members brought attention to aviation connectivity issues affecting Kolkata and Himachal Pradesh. Saket Gokhale emphasized the lack of international flights from Kolkata, while Harsh Mahajan discussed regional air service disruptions in Himachal Pradesh. They urged governmental intervention to address these challenges and enhance travel infrastructure.

In a fervent Zero Hour address, Rajya Sabha members sounded alarms over crucial aviation connectivity issues hampering growth and accessibility in Kolkata and Himachal Pradesh. Trinamool Congress representative Saket Gokhale spotlighted Kolkata Airport's absence of direct international flights to the US and Europe, despite a significant rise in foreign tourist arrivals.

Underscoring the pressing need for infrastructural enhancements, Gokhale urged the central government to introduce incentive packages, including rebates and improved handling, to bolster Kolkata's gateway status. Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Janata Party's Harsh Mahajan highlighted disruptions on crucial Himachal Pradesh routes caused by expired operational contracts under the UDAN Regional Connectivity Scheme.

Mahajan expressed concerns over economic impacts, citing Air Alliance's service suspension due to high costs. He appealed to the Civil Aviation Minister to reinstate air services, suggesting contract renewals and incentivizing new operators to optimize regional connectivity and support tourism and trade.

(With inputs from agencies.)