In the wake of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued an urgent advisory on April 23, calling on airlines to increase flight frequencies from Srinagar to help evacuate stranded tourists. The directive comes amid a sudden surge in passenger traffic, as travellers rushed to Srinagar Airport seeking to return to their respective hometowns.
“In the aftermath of the incident in Pahalgam, there is an unexpected demand from tourists seeking to return to their homes,” stated the DGCA in its advisory. “In this regard, the airlines are advised to take swift action to increase the number of flights in response to heightened demand and also to ensure uninterrupted connectivity from Srinagar to various destinations across India, facilitating evacuation of stranded tourists.”
The advisory further urged airlines to show compassion and flexibility by waiving cancellation and rescheduling fees. “The airlines are also requested to provide all necessary assistance to tourists facing unexpected circumstances and challenges during this difficult time,” it added.
Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu also shared updates through a post on X (formerly Twitter), affirming the government’s commitment to supporting affected tourists. “In the wake of the tragic terror attack, we are constantly making efforts to ensure safe travel of tourists from Srinagar,” he said. “Strict instructions were given to airline companies to avoid any fare surges. Fares are being monitored and kept at reasonable levels.”
He announced that, in addition to the four extra flights already scheduled, three more flights to Delhi were being operated on April 23: IndiGo 6E 3203 (Dep: 1700, Arr: 1800), IndiGo 6E 3103 (Dep: 1800, Arr: 1930), and a SpiceJet flight scheduled to depart at 10:30 PM.
“All airlines operating from Srinagar have waived cancellation and rescheduling charges to support passengers,” Naidu added.
Efforts are also underway to support travellers at the Srinagar Airport, with food and water being distributed and an extra tent set up to accommodate those waiting for their flights. Between 6 AM and 12 PM on April 23, the airport handled 20 departures and facilitated the travel of 3,337 passengers.
“I’m personally monitoring the situation and in constant touch with the Home Ministry & airline operators,” the minister emphasized. “This is a time for solidarity. We stand with every citizen and will ensure all support needed.”
