Shimla, Apr 30
The anticipation of IPL matches in Dharamshala brought not just cricket enthusiasts but also soaring airfares to the serene town nestled in the lap of the Himalayas. As travelers planned their journey to witness the cricketing extravaganza, they found themselves grappling with exorbitant prices for flights between Delhi and Dharamshala.
Though airline company officials equate this with demand and supply but what was once an affordable journey suddenly became a luxury out of reach for many. The Himachal Pradesh government’s declaration of Kangra district as the tourism capital had set the stage for an influx of visitors, promising economic growth and opportunities for locals. However, the unintended consequence of the IPL matches was the unprecedented surge in airfare, leaving travelers dismayed and disheartened. Despite the state government’s initiatives aimed at promoting tourism and bolstering the local economy, the surge in airfare presented a stark contrast to their intentions. Instead of facilitating easier access for tourists and cricket lovers alike, the soaring prices acted as a deterrent, forcing some travelers to rethink their plans and opt for alternative modes of transportation.
For Dr. Sanjay Sachdeva, whose commitment to attend a free ENT camp in Kangra coincided with the inflated airfares, the dilemma was particularly poignant. Like many others, he faced the choice of either bearing the exorbitant costs or seeking alternative routes to reach his destination.
As the Kangra Airport, the lifeline connecting the region to the rest of the country, witnessed a surge in passenger traffic and aircraft movement, it became evident that the demand for air travel was on the rise. However, the steep rise in prices threatened to undermine the accessibility and affordability that were crucial for sustainable tourism growth.
Neha Sharma, a travel agent, echoed the sentiments of many travelers as she highlighted the staggering increase in airfare during the IPL matches. The decision of some passengers to break their journey at Chandigarh and opt for road travel further underscored the impact of the soaring prices on travel patterns.
Despite the challenges posed by the escalating airfares, the allure of Dharamshala’s scenic beauty and the excitement of IPL cricket remained undiminished. However, the episode served as a reminder of the delicate balance between promoting tourism and ensuring accessibility for all.
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