Sri Vijaya Puram, Mar 16: The Hindu Rashtra Shakti (HRS) unit of Andaman and Nicobar Islands has formally requested the Ministry of Civil Aviation to address critical concerns regarding air travel and medical services in Sri Vijayapuram, Port Blair. In a letter addressed to Mr. Rammohan Naidu Kinjarapu, the Honorable Minister of Civil Aviation, the HRS highlighted the urgent need for enhanced low-fare commercial flight options and a dedicated air ambulance service in the region.
Sri Vijayapuram, serving as the gateway to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is a vital hub for tourism, healthcare, and economic activities. However, the region faces significant challenges, including the high cost of air travel and the absence of dedicated air ambulance services. These issues not only hinder the mobility of residents, tourists, and businesses but also pose serious risks to healthcare access, particularly in emergencies.
The HRS has outlined a series of measures aimed at addressing these challenges, including:
• Encouraging Low-Cost Carriers (LCCs): Promoting the operation of LCCs on routes between Sri Vijayapuram and mainland India to make air travel more affordable.
• Subsidized Airfares: Introducing subsidies or incentives for airlines to reduce fares, particularly for residents of the islands.
• Dedicated Air Ambulance Service: Establishing a round-the-clock air ambulance service with advanced medical facilities for critical medical evacuations.
• Collaboration with Health Authorities: Coordinating with the Ministry of Health and local authorities to streamline medical evacuations and ensure adequate medical support on the mainland.
• Infrastructure Development: Upgrading the Veer Savarkar International Airport to accommodate increased flights and services, including improvements to terminals, runways, and navigation systems.
• Cargo and Essential Supplies: Ensuring that low-cost flights also prioritize the transportation of essential goods and medical supplies.
• Emergency Response Mechanism: Developing a robust emergency response strategy for natural disasters, integrating air ambulance services into disaster management plans.
• Public-Private Partnerships: Encouraging collaborations between the public and private sectors to ensure the sustainability of low-fare flights and air ambulance services.
The Hindu Rashtra Shakti believes that these measures will not only improve the quality of life for residents but also boost tourism, healthcare, and overall development in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The organization has expressed hope that the Ministry of Civil Aviation will give prompt attention to these requests, ultimately contributing to the region’s growth and well-being.
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