Expressing concern over the “inconvenience” caused to foreign tourists at Srinagar airport, Travel Agents Association of Kashmir has appealed the government to do away with the registration of foreign arrivals at the aerodrome.

At a recent meeting with Principal Secretary Tourism SandipNayak, a delegation of TAAK while discussing various issues confronting tourism sector in the Valley, expressed serious concern over the inconvenience being caused to the tourists, especially the foreign tourists, at the airport. 

The TAAK delegation was represented by its Vice President Malik HamidullahBazaz, Secretary General Farooq A Kuthoo, and others, the association in a statement said.Giving details it said the TAAK suggested to the Principal Secretary Tourism that the registration of foreign arrivals at the airport should be abolished.

The TAAK members said direct bookings made by online travel portals are badly affecting their business.

“We also informed Principal Secretary Tourism that drivers resort to touting at Srinagar airport which should be curbed,” Kuthoo said.TAAK also demanded that tour operators should not be pressed for airport passes. “How can a tour operator get an airport pass if he gets booking late evening? This has also led to corruption and is a hassle for tour operators,” Kuthoo said.

TAAK also pointed out “harassment” caused to the tourists heading to places like Chesmashahi and Shankaracharya where the security forces asks them to alight from the vehicles for frisking.

TAAK said department of tourism Kashmir had previously issued notice against 240 travel agents who had not renewed their licenses. “The travel agents have not responded to the notices which show their non-seriousness. The registration of such agents should be cancelled,”

TAAK demanded.TAAK also reiterated its demand of compensation to the travel agents for the losses they suffered in the September -2014 floods.

Source: Greater Kashmir