Alarming statistics: 92% of Punjab’s travel agents operating illegally, reveals govt report;
PTC Web Desk: A recent report by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has revealed alarming statistics about the travel agent industry in Punjab. According to the report, only 212 travel agents in the state possess valid licenses, meaning that a staggering 92% of agents are operating illegally. This has raised concerns about fraudulent activities and exploitation of unsuspecting travellers.
The report highlights that many districts in Punjab have no registered travel agents under the Central Government’s guidelines. Despite immigration offices being operational in eight districts, none of the agents in these areas possess a valid license. The districts identified are Sri Muktsar Sahib, Tarn Taran, Faridkot, Pathankot, Ferozepur, Malerkotla, Fazilka, and Mansa.
Furthermore, of the 212 licensed agents, nearly 65 have had their licenses expire, and the Central Government has already canceled them. This indicates that large-scale illegal travel agency operations are prevalent across nearly every district in Punjab.
The government is new is gearing up to take stringent action against fraudulent travel agents, particularly in Gujarat, Punjab, Chandigarh, and Delhi. In Punjab alone, the police have identified 2,730 unregistered agents who will soon face legal scrutiny.
Investigative agencies are also reviewing cases of 104 Indian nationals who were recently deported from the United States. These deportations have prompted further inquiries into the fraudulent activities of unauthorised travel agents.
Despite the widespread issue of illegal operations, the report identifies Jalandhar as having the highest number of licensed travel agents. The city has 86 registered agents, although 16 of these are awaiting license renewals, and four have been revoked.
Following Jalandhar, Mohali ranks second with 31 licensed agents, while Hoshiarpur has 22, Ludhiana has 20, and other districts have fewer registered agents.
Here’s a breakdown of licensed agents in various districts:
Fatehgarh Sahib: 1 agent (license suspended)
Sangrur: 2 agents (1 license revoked)
Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar: 3 agents (1 license expired)
Moga: 2 agents (1 license expired)
Kapurthala: 3 agents
Patiala: 1 agent
Bathinda: 2 agents (both licenses expired)
- PTC NEWS
