The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has directed the DGCA to conduct a full safety audit of all aircraft in India, following serious concerns about aviation safety after a recent Air India crash. The committee also raised issues about airfare surges and tariff discrepancies.
Why This Issue Matters
- A tragic Air India crash with over 240 deaths prompted the committee to question safety systems.
- The PAC has also flagged excessive airfares and unfair pricing practices during peak seasons like the Kumbh Mela.
Concerns Raised by the Committee
- Aircraft Safety: MPs asked who checks airworthiness and how inspections are carried out. The PAC demanded a nationwide safety audit of all operating aircraft.
- Airfare Surge: Instances of skyrocketing ticket prices during festivals and religious gatherings were discussed. Some MPs criticized the DGCA for waiting for airline consensus instead of acting independently.
- Airport Tariffs: Differences in user charges between Airports Authority of India (AAI) and private airports were questioned. The PAC was not satisfied with AERA’s explanation on how it fixes airport tariffs.
About the Public Accounts Committee (PAC)
- A financial committee of Parliament, formed under Rule 308 of Lok Sabha Rules.
- Examines government spending and audit reports by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG).
- Consists of 22 members (15 from Lok Sabha, 7 from Rajya Sabha).
- Headed by a senior Opposition MP (currently K.C. Venugopal).
ABOUT PARLIAMENTARY COMMITTEES
- Help Parliament scrutinize government functioning in detail.
- Types include:
- Standing Committees (e.g., PAC, Estimates Committee)
- Ad hoc Committees (temporary, for specific issues)
- Improve efficiency, accountability, and transparency in governance.
Standing Committees (Permanent)
- Permanent in nature – Work throughout the year and are reconstituted annually.
- Examples – Public Accounts Committee (PAC), Estimates Committee, Departmentally Related Standing Committees (DRSCs).
- Main role – Examine bills, budgets, government functioning, and suggest improvements.
Ad hoc Committees (Temporary)
- Formed for a specific purpose – Dissolved after completing their task.
- Types – Inquiry Committees (for investigations) and Advisory Committees (e.g., Select Committees on Bills).
- Examples – Joint Parliamentary Committees (JPCs) on major issues like scams or policy matters.
Conclusion:
The PAC’s intervention reflects growing concerns over air safety and consumer protection in the aviation sector. Strong regulation and oversight are essential to ensure passenger safety and fair pricing in India’s growing air travel market.
