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Srinagar Airport to Shut for 15 Days in October (Image Internet)
Srinagar: The Srinagar International Airport will remain closed for all flight operations from October 1 to October 15 due to critical runway maintenance and repair work. The decision has raised concern among tourism stakeholders, especially with the shutdown coinciding with the busy Durga Puja travel season.
Airport authorities said the repair work is essential for ensuring long-term operational safety and improving runway conditions.
The closure is expected to significantly affect Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism sector, which typically sees a surge in visitors from West Bengal during the festive period. Travel operators have warned that the suspension could lead to widespread cancellations, reduced bookings, and substantial financial losses for hotels, houseboats, and local businesses.
Stakeholders have urged authorities to reconsider or adjust the timing, arguing that October is one of the most important months for domestic tourism in the region.
Officials confirmed that the runway upgrade will follow a phased schedule beginning in July. During this period, flight operations will already face partial disruption, with services suspended for two days each week before the complete October shutdown.
The airport has already been operating under restricted hours following a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued by the Indian Air Force on April 6. Currently, flights are allowed only between 8 am and 5 pm, a significant reduction from the earlier 7 am to 10 pm schedule.
As the full closure approaches, tourism and hospitality groups continue to push for alternative arrangements, warning that prolonged disruption of air connectivity during peak travel demand could impact Kashmir’s local economy and seasonal earnings.
