For a landlocked region for which surface transport is operational for only six months in a year owing to harsh climatic conditions, life entirely depends on air link with the world outside. Many important matters have been discussed and resolved in the recent meeting called by the Secretary Ministry of Civil Aviation. It is highly encouraging that very good and desirable decisions have been taken in the interests of the people of Ladakh and the development of the region. Air India and GoAir will be operating 28 flights a week thus making in all 5 flights per day between New Delhi and Leh. The matter of rationalising the air fare for the locals ad tourists has also been decided and will be made operational from next month. Freight charges and the charges for carrying mortal remains of stretched patients, too, have been considered and the air carriers have agreed to look into it. For the extension of the Leh air field, the objections made by the Air Force Headquarters are being discussed with proper authorities to find a solution to the problem.
Though these measures are reassuring but we would suggest that more facilities should be provided particularly in the case of students, senior citizens and ailing persons of those regions. Thousands of students from Ladakh and Kargil regions are studying in a large number of educational institutions in Jammu, Chandigarh, Pathankot, Shimla, Jallandhar, Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore and Pune. They are from poor families and their parents are making great sacrifices for their education. Theirs is a just case and should be given concession in air fare while travelling to and from Leh/Kargil.
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