Sri Vijaya Puram, Apr 05: Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray, Member of Parliament from Andaman & Nicobar Islands, has appealed to Mr. Rammohan Naidu Kinjarapu, Minister of Civil Aviation, Government of India, to urgently consider enhancement of baggage allowance for passengers travelling between the islands and mainland India and also permit at least two pieces of baggage within the permissible limit, considering the practical difficulties faced by the islanders
Highlighting the unique geographical challenges faced by the islanders, MP emphasized that air connectivity is not a matter of convenience but a vital lifeline. With no rail or road connectivity to the mainland, residents of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands are heavily dependent on air travel for essential needs such as education, healthcare, employment and other emergencies. Although ship services are available, they remain irregular and operate primarily during limited periods such as festivals or special demand.
Mr. Ray pointed out that the current baggage allowance of 15 kg is inadequate for passengers who often need to carry essential goods that are either unavailable or significantly more expensive in the islands. This limitation forces travelers to incur substantial additional expenses on excess baggage.
Further raising concerns, he noted that earlier passengers were allowed to carry baggage in two or three pieces within the permissible limit. However, the present restriction of a single baggage piece has caused considerable inconvenience, especially for families, students, patients and those travelling for longer durations, making it difficult to manage essential belongings.
In his letter, MP has urged the Civil Aviation Minister to enhance the baggage allowance from 15 kg to 25 kg for Port Blair–mainland sectors and vice versa; and permit at least two pieces of baggage within the permissible limit, considering the practical difficulties faced by the islanders.
