New Delhi (Agency): Air travel is a boon in today’s fast-paced world. The ability to travel between cities or even countries in just a few hours has opened up countless opportunities. However, it is vital that this mode of transportation remains affordable for the common citizen. A recent recommendation by a Parliamentary Panel in India emphasizes this aspect.
The panel, led by Rajya Sabha MP Sujeet Kumar, believes that the development of airport infrastructure should be cost-effective. It’s essential that flying remains an affordable option for the common man. They’ve warned against the “gold plating” of airports – a term used to describe the inclusion of overly lavish features that increase the project’s cost. The panel’s viewpoint is clear: airports should be comfortable and efficient but needn’t be overly luxurious.
They mention, “‘India is a developing country and passengers are price conscious. The Committee observes that maximum people use the airports just for travel, do the baggage check-in, get their baggage on arrival and leave.” They further stated that the main focus should be on the passenger service rather than other extras.
The quality of airport infrastructure, as the panel rightly pointed out, plays a crucial role in a country’s global competitiveness and the attraction of foreign investment. Still, this should not come at the cost of making air travel inaccessible for its citizens. “Whilst the airport terminals need to be comfortable and facilitate a smoother and hassle free journey, they need not be overly opulent,” the committee report stated.
Considering India’s limited resources, the Parliamentary Panel has advised the government to ensure that the modernization of both state and privately run airports is efficient and cost-effective. This approach will help reduce operational costs, making air travel affordable for everyone, consistent with the goals set out in the National Civil Aviation Policy.
Furthermore, the panel observed that many Indian carriers are facing financial challenges despite the significant increase in air traffic. The importance of cost-effective operations for long-term sustainability is evident. They have emphasized that public funds for airport development are becoming limited. There’s a pressing need for private sector involvement to bridge the gap in resources and enhance airport management efficiency.
In light of these considerations, the committee recognized that Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) in the airport sector have been successful. Such partnerships have led to the creation of world-class airport infrastructure and improved service quality.
As air travel becomes an increasingly popular mode of transportation, it’s essential to strike a balance. Airports should provide efficient services and a comfortable experience for travelers without becoming overly luxurious or expensive. This way, everyone can enjoy the benefits of air travel without it becoming a burden on their pockets.
