Port Blair, Feb 15: The President, Andaman Association of Tour Operators, Shri. M. Vinod called upon Lieutenant General Ajai Singh, AVSM, Commander-in-Chief, Andaman Nicobar Command at HQ, ANC today. Vinod expressed his concern over closure of VSI Airport for 4 days every week starting from March to May 2022 for re-carpeting work of the runway.

He appraised the CINCAN that closure of the runway will paralyze movement of men and material in these remote islands. Moreover medical patients travelling to mainland will be deprived of flight services for 4 days in a week.

He also expressed his concern on the fate of tourism industry in the islands, which is recovering after a long gap. Limited availability of flights will escalate the ticket prices and also prove to be a hindrance for tourists. The economy of the islands, which largely depends on tourism will be deeply affected.

Lieutenant General, Ajai Singh, AVSM, Commander-in-Chief, ANC gave a patient hearing to all points raised by Association and appraised him of the importance and priority of the runway resurfacing works.

Vinod said he is hopeful that an alternate solution will be worked out by Andaman Nicobar Command considering the seriousness of closure of the runway of VSI airport.