Appeal for Regulation of Air Ticket Prices
- September 08th, 2024 :: World Meetei Council -

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To
The Hon'ble Shri Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu,
Minister of Civil Aviation,
Rajiv Gandhi Bhawan, Block B,
Safdarjung Airport Area, New Delhi - 110003

Subject: Urgent Appeal for Regulation of Air Ticket Prices Amidst Ongoing Manipur Conflict

Greetings from the World Meetei Council!

I am writing to bring to your attention a pressing concern affecting the residents of the Imphal Valley, Manipur, amidst the prolonged ethnic conflict that has lasted over 16 months.

The Imphal Valley is geographically enclosed by two critical routes: National Highway No. 2 through Kangpokpi district, connecting to Nagaland, and National Highway No. 37 through Tamenglong district, connecting to Assam. Unfortunately, these highways have become restricted and unsafe for the Meetei community due to the ongoing tensions, compelling citizens to rely heavily on-air travel via Imphal Airport, the region's only airport.

Regrettably, air ticket prices from Imphal to nearby cities like Dimapur, Guwahati, and Silchar have seen a significant increase over the past year, placing an additional burden on the affected population. Given the limited alternatives and the precarious situation faced by the residents, many are left with no option but to endure high travel costs or risk their safety.

In light of these challenges, we humbly request your esteemed office to kindly consider measures to regulate and reduce air ticket prices for flights connecting Imphal with Dimapur, Guwahati, and Silchar. This could include capping the prices, offering subsidies, or increasing the frequency of flights. Your timely intervention during this critical period would bring much-needed relief to the people of Manipur and would be deeply appreciated by all.

Thank you for your kind attention to this matter. We remain hopeful for your prompt and favorable response.

Yambem Arun Meetei
Secretary General,
CEC - World Meetei Council