Call it carelessness or last moment rush, flyers at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International (SVPI) airport have hit the high when it comes to losing valuables at terminals.
Starting from gadgets like laptops, cell phones, power banks, and chargers to baby strollers, walking sticks and blankets, the passengers have lost way too many items at the city airport over the past six months.
The SVPI has reported over 3,000 lost items at or near the terminal. Interestingly, only 1,000 passengers have claimed their items so far.
The airport has handed over 100 laptops, 25 ipads, 120 mobile phones, and 75 wallets to the passengers in these last six months.
Sources at the airport said passengers often forget their valuables either at the security check area or the tray or at their seat.
"Airport officials report the lost items to the authorities. If the items are not claimed within 90 days, they are put up for auction," the official said.
The city airport has auctioned goods worth Rs 15 lakh this year and the next auction is likely to take place soon.
"Our responsibility is to hand over the items to the owner. We carry out basic checks if someone claims an item. We also check the passenger's travel details. However, if the items are not claimed, we put them up for auction," Manoj Gangal, Airport Director, said.
"A pouch with Indian and foreign currency worth Rs 87,294 was recently handed over to a passenger after checking the documents," the officials added.
"After the passengers are returned their belongings, we receive interesting letters from them thanking our officials," Gangal added.
One such letter received on December 10 stated: I was travelling to Thailand on November 25 for a vacation. I forgot my wallet and cash at the security check area before boarding. While I had received a call from the security personnel, I could not collect it as my plane was on the runway. After I returned, I got my valuables back and hence want to thank the officials for the same."
