AN-32 Kargil courier service airlifts 24 stranded passengers

Twenty-four stranded passengers were airlifted by the Indian Air Force (IAF) between Kargil and Srinagar on Saturday, marking the commencement of AN-32 Kargil courier service, a lifeline to the Union Territory of Ladakh especially during winter months.

On the first day, 12 passengers travelled in the AN-32 Kargil courier service from Kargil to Srinagar and an equal number between Srinagar to Kargil, an official said.

The Kargil courier service operates on Kargil-Srinagar and Kargil-Jammu routes on selected days to facilitate the passengers who are stranded due to closure of Srinagar-Leh national highway owing to heavy snowfall.

According to a government spokesperson, Indian Air Force crew was welcomed by Executive Councillor, LAHDC, as well as by Kargil Deputy Commissioner Shrikant Balasaheb Suse and Deputy Superintendent of Police (Headquarters) Nitin Yadav.

Executive Councillors as well as Deputy Commissioner appreciated the support provided by the Indian Air Force for the Kargil courier service during winter season, which is very helpful for the needy passengers, especially senior citizens as well as those availing medical treatment in Jammu and Srinagar and also the student community.

The DC along with DSP inspected all arrangements at Kargil airport and instructed all officials to ensure smooth management of Kargil courier service.