The imposition of entry fee at Srinagar Airport has become a continuous source of inconvenience and frustration for commuters, drawing criticism from various quarters.
Drivers of both private and passenger vehicles are required to pay an entry fee of Rs 80, irrespective of whether they park or merely drop off passengers at the airport.
Concerned citizens had repeatedly urged the authorities to abolish this fee, arguing that it amounts to exploitation and resembles a form of “forced tax.”
Despite these appeals, the practice continues unabated, affecting not only tourism operators but also ordinary individuals dropping off friends, family members, or guests.
People visiting the Srinagar Airport told the news agency Kashmir News Trust that the entry fee is levied even on vehicles that do not utilize parking facilities, which they deem unfair and unnecessary.
The contract for collecting the entry fee has been awarded to a non-local party.
A netizen, RJ Sameen wrote on X: “Here is another scam paid 80 rupees for just entry at the airport, left within 4 minutess. Still was charged 80 rupees. Who says 14 mins are free?. The said netizen added that this is a loot.
Local residents and tourism operators have called for immediate intervention from the relevant authorities to address the issue.