In Jammu and Kashmir, authorities are considering shifting of operation of various commercial flights of different airlines to air force airbase in Awantipora in Pulwama district. The move is being considered for undertaking necessary repairs at Srinagar airport. Flight operations from the airport were to be stopped from September first. The state Chief Minister Omer Abdullah and state Congress Chief and MP Saifudin Soz has raised the matter with the Prime Minister and Defence Minister to defer the closure of airport till alternate arrangement are made to keep flights to the valley operational. The state chief secretary has called a high level meeting in Srinagar today to take a final decision on the issue. The closure of airport for flights could cause hardships for thousands of Kashmiris intending to join their families on the Eid festival. The proposed 12 day closure of airport could also impact the little bit of business activity going on in the valley hit by on going unrest.