Government Takes Action to Address Rising Airfares in Silchar

The state government of Silchar is actively addressing the issue of skyrocketing airfares on key routes, including Silchar–Guwahati and Silchar–Kolkata. Chief Secretary Dr. Ravi Kota announced measures taken after complaints about ticket prices exceeding Rs 10,000. The government is pushing for fare caps and additional flights to improve connectivity. Plans for a new Greenfield Airport and a high-speed corridor are also in the works to enhance travel and trade in the region. The commitment to resolving these issues reflects the government's focus on the growth of Barak Valley.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 14, 2025, 10:37 IST

Addressing Airfare Concerns in Silchar

Silchar, July 14: In response to growing public dissatisfaction regarding soaring airfares on the Silchar–Guwahati and Silchar–Kolkata routes, the state government is committed to enhancing regional connectivity.

During a recent gathering of prominent citizens in Silchar, Chief Secretary Dr. Ravi Kota revealed that Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma had a crucial meeting with the chairman of IndiGo Airlines in New Delhi, prompted by numerous complaints about ticket prices exceeding Rs 10,000.

“The Chief Minister emphasized that the airfare for the Silchar to Guwahati route should be capped between Rs 6,000 and Rs 6,500, regardless of seasonal demand or connectivity issues. Initially, IndiGo expressed concerns about operational difficulties, but they have now committed to adjusting the fares by July 15. We are awaiting their action,” Dr. Kota stated.

Additionally, during a joint meeting with the Ministry of Civil Aviation, IndiGo representatives, and state officials, the Chief Minister urged the central government to facilitate more flights to and from Silchar, Jorhat, and Lakhimpur.

“IndiGo has tentatively agreed to increase services in Assam, and we are now looking for a definitive operational timeline,” Dr. Kota mentioned, also noting that discussions are ongoing to reinstate the suspended Air India flight between Silchar and Kolkata, which has been grounded since June.

Regarding a long-term solution for connectivity issues in Barak Valley, Dr. Kota announced that the proposed Greenfield Airport at Doloo has been included in the National Infrastructure Pipeline by the Ministry of Civil Aviation following a recent public hearing.

“The new airport will be a modern facility capable of accommodating larger aircraft, unlike the current airport, which faces several structural and operational limitations. The public hearing has concluded, and we are making progress,” he added.

To further enhance connectivity in Barak Valley, the Chief Secretary revealed that construction on the high-speed corridor connecting Guwahati and Silchar via Barapani to Panchgram is expected to commence by November this year.

This project, anticipated to be completed within three years, aims to significantly reduce travel time and promote trade and mobility, he noted.

In response to calls for a rail alternative through Lanka via Chandranathpur, Dr. Kota confirmed that a Detailed Project Report (DPR) has been prepared and is awaiting final approval from Indian Railways. The DPR estimates the project cost at Rs 38,000 crore.

Reiterating the state government’s dedication to resolving Barak Valley’s connectivity challenges, Dr. Kota stated, “Our aim is to deliver tangible results rather than mere promises. The development of Barak Valley is a priority, and we are committed to turning our plans into reality.”

Earlier, the Chief Secretary reviewed the progress of ongoing development schemes and projects in the district, emphasizing the need for enhanced focus on education and healthcare sectors, which are currently facing infrastructure and human resource challenges.