ANRIPA BC Calls for Safer, More Convenient Travel Between Vancouver and Amritsar or Chandigarh
SURREY, BC — The Canadian Punjabi Pensioners Association of BC (ANRIPA BC) has formally appealed to Prime Minister Mark Carney and key federal ministers to advocate for direct international flights between Vancouver International Airport (YVR) and the northern Indian cities of Amritsar (ATQ) or Chandigarh (IXC).
In a letter sent from the association’s Surrey office, ANRIPA BC expressed growing concern over the lack of direct air service between British Columbia and Punjab—an issue that affects thousands of families across Canada, particularly during the winter months when many travel to visit relatives and attend religious and cultural events.
The association stressed that current travel options require passengers to land in Delhi and then endure long, late-night road journeys to reach destinations in Punjab. These overland trips, often taken after exhausting international flights, have resulted in numerous serious and sometimes fatal accidents, especially involving elderly travelers.
“The need for direct air connectivity is both practical and urgent,” wrote Jagrup Singh Khera and H.S. Sandhu on behalf of ANRIPA BC. “A direct flight from Vancouver to Punjab would not only improve travel safety and comfort but also prevent unnecessary tragedies.”
The letter urges Prime Minister Carney’s government to raise the matter with the Government of India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi through appropriate diplomatic and aviation channels. It also calls on local Members of Parliament representing Delta, Surrey, and other B.C. regions to voice their support for this initiative in Parliament.
In addition, ANRIPA BC is requesting that the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of Transport engage with Air India or other international carriers to explore and establish a direct service route from Vancouver to either Amritsar or Chandigarh.
According to the association, a direct connection would not only serve the travel and safety needs of the Punjabi-Canadian community, but also help strengthen cultural, economic, and familial ties between Canada and India—especially as the two nations continue to build on their long-standing relationship.
Community members are encouraged to support this initiative by contacting ANRIPA BC at anripabc1@gmail.com or 604-488-9600.
jaskamal bhandal says
it is very great purposal we are really in favour also