Omar meets Rajnath, Naidu over proposed Srinagar airport closure

Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah met with defence minister Rajnath Singh and Naidu to discuss the proposed closure of the runway at Srinagar airport. The gathering, which took place in the national capital, centered on a scheduled runway overhaul set to begin in October. Officials indicated that the works are part of a broader effort to modernize airport facilities, though the timing has raised concerns about flight operations during the region’s peak tourism season.

The proposed runway works are expected to require a temporary shutdown of the airport’s primary runway, a step that could affect both domestic and international flights. With the summer months drawing large numbers of visitors to the valley, the potential disruption could impact hotel bookings, transport services, and local businesses that depend on tourist traffic. Abdullah has called for a review of the schedule, arguing that the works should be timed to minimize inconvenience to travelers and the local economy.

In response, the defence minister and Naidu have indicated that the matter will be examined. Abdullah has also proposed using the Awantipora air base as a backup facility to maintain air services while the runway work is carried out. The air base, located near Srinagar, could handle scheduled flights and charter services, offering a practical alternative during the closure period. This suggestion aims to safeguard the tourism calendar, which traditionally peaks between March and October.

The discussion underscores the importance of air connectivity for the region’s economy. Srinagar airport serves as a gateway for visitors to the Kashmir valley, and any interruption in service can ripple through related sectors such as hospitality, transport, and retail. Local leaders have long emphasized that reliable air links are essential for maintaining the flow of tourists, business travelers, and essential supplies. The proposal to shift operations to Awantipora reflects an effort to balance infrastructure upgrades with the economic needs of the area.

Authorities have said that a final decision will be taken after further consultations. The review process is expected to involve coordination between the civil aviation department, the defence ministry, and the Jammu and Kashmir government. As the October deadline approaches, stakeholders are watching closely to see how the issue will be resolved. The outcome will likely set a precedent for how similar runway projects are managed across other airports in the region.

The meeting follows ongoing discussions between the Jammu and Kashmir administration and central authorities regarding the airport’s infrastructure plan. The runway upgrade is being considered as part of broader airport development efforts. While the exact scope of the works has not been detailed publicly, the focus remains on ensuring that flight operations can continue without undue interruption.

Source: Hindustan Times