UDAAN Yatri Cafe: A Solution To Expensive Airport Food

To address growing concerns about overpriced food and beverages at airports, the Indian government has launched the ‘Udaan Yatri Cafe’ initiative. This project aims to offer affordable refreshments to passengers, starting with a pilot at Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport. The initiative was proposed after Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha raised the issue in Parliament, emphasizing the need to reduce the financial burden on air travelers.

Key Highlights

Launch Details

• Pilot Project Location: Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport.
• Offering: Affordable water, tea, coffee, and snacks.
• Expansion Plans: Will extend to other Airports Authority of India (AAI)-run airports if successful.

Role of Raghav Chaddha

• Parliamentary Advocacy: Raised concerns over inflated food prices in airports during the winter session.
• Example: Water bottles priced at ₹100, tea at ₹200-250.
• Public Praise: Widely lauded for championing the cause of ordinary citizens.
• Additional Concerns: Highlighted overcrowding and mismanagement at airports, likening them to bus stands.

Public Support

• Received widespread approval on social media and from citizens across India.
• Ladakh’s Konchok Stanzin highlighted the relief this initiative could bring to remote areas like Ladakh.

Broader Concerns raised By Chaddha

• High Airfares: Criticized rising flight ticket costs, making air travel unaffordable for the common man.
• Examples,
• Delhi-Mumbai fares: ₹10,000-14,500.
• Maldives trip (₹17,000) cheaper than Lakshadweep (₹25,000).
• Accessibility Issues: Questioned the disparity between government promises and the reality of high costs.

Objective of the Initiative

• Affordable Air Travel: Alleviate passenger costs by providing budget-friendly amenities.
• Improved Experience: Ensure convenience and accessibility for air travelers amidst rising aviation costs.