Andaman demands upgradation of air facilities for tourism

Port Blair, Sep 9 (UNI) The Andaman Chamber of Commerce and Industries (ACCI) today demanded better air connectivity and more facilities for the Port Blair International airport.

Talking to UNI, ACCI General Secretary G Bhasker said,'' We need international connectivity, improvement in domestic airlines, inter-islands connectivity, improvement of infrastructure of the airport.'' He also demanded for reservation of seats on Port Blair-bound flights for the islanders and special freight rates for the movement of essential commodities here.

An ACCI delegation had yesterday met Union Civil Aviation Minister Praful Patel, who was here on a visit, and submitted their charter of demands.

'' The Union Minister has assured us to look into these matters,'' Mr Bhasker said.

The ACCI has been pressing for better air facilities since past few years to attract more foreign tourists, which in turn would help uplift the local economy.

Most European tourists to India avoid visiting this archipelago due to its remoteness, poor connectivity and presence of the Indian military, Mr Bhasker.

UNI