Diplomat Correspondent
Leh, (DD): Hundreds of students, elderly people, and pilgrims returning from Iran are stranded in Jammu, Srinagar, and Delhi due to skyrocketing airfares and repeated flight cancellations to Ladakh.
With no alternative travel options, passengers are facing severe difficulties. Many students and elderly travelers are unable to afford the high ticket prices, while others have been stuck for days waiting for flights that keep getting canceled.
Appeal for Indian Air Force Flights
In response to the crisis, appeals have been made to Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Brig. (Dr.) B.D. Mishra (Retd.), and the Indian Air Force to arrange IL-76 aircraft sorties between Jammu-Leh and Srinagar-Leh to help evacuate the stranded passengers.
“We have nowhere to go. Flights are either too expensive or canceled at the last moment. We urgently need the government’s help,” said a stranded student in Srinagar.
“Many elderly people and pilgrims are struggling. Authorities must intervene and provide emergency transport,” added a passenger stuck in Jammu.
Recurring Winter Travel Issues
This situation highlights Ladakh’s annual winter travel crisis, which is caused by:
Limited flights during peak winter months.
Uncontrolled airfare hikes, making travel unaffordable.
Frequent cancellations, leaving passengers stranded.
Passengers and local leaders are now hoping for a swift response from the administration to arrange emergency flights and ensure safe travel for those affected.(DD)