SRINAGAR: Passenger traffic at Srinagar International Airport has seen a sharp decline following the recent attack in Pahalgam, Anantnag.
According to data, the number of passengers travelling through Srinagar Airport began dropping from April 23, shortly after the attack.
On April 23, a total of 17,653 passengers travelled through the airport across 112 flights, including 6,561 arrivals and 11,092 departures.
The following day, April 24, the airport handled 15,836 passengers on 118 flights, including 4,456 arrivals and 11,380 departures.
The downward trend continued on April 25, with 14,041 passengers travelling on 100 scheduled flights. An additional four flights carried 24 arriving and 794 departing passengers. On April 26, the airport saw 14,783 passengers on 106 scheduled flights, with three extra flights carrying 28 arrivals and 351 departures.
Airport officials said that while flight operations have remained largely unaffected in terms of frequency, the load factor (passenger occupancy) has declined. “The fear triggered by the attack has led to a dip in tourist arrivals, affecting overall air traffic,” an official said.
He added that the security situation is being closely monitored and all flights are operating normally, but the immediate aftermath of the attack has clearly impacted travel demand.
Meanwhile, stakeholders in the travel and tourism industry have expressed concern over the declining tourist footfall and its potential impact on the ongoing tourism season.
“April to June is our prime season. Such incidents severely affect tourist confidence. The decline in air traffic is already showing this,” said a travel operator in Srinagar, noting that most bookings have been cancelled.
Authorities have since assured that enhanced security measures are being implemented at and around tourist hotspots to ensure visitor safety.
The Pahalgam attack claimed the lives of 26 people, mostly tourists, and has been widely condemned. Security has been heightened across South Kashmir and other major tourist destinations. (KNO)
