New Delhi, September 9 (Daily Kiran) : A significant step has been taken to enhance air connectivity in Himachal Pradesh. Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu met with Union Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia in New Delhi to discuss various aspects of aviation infrastructure expansion in the state.
During the meeting, Sukhu emphasized the importance of expanding Kangra Airport. He noted that tourism plays a crucial role in the state’s economy, and improved air connectivity would boost tourism activities. Sukhu informed the minister that the land acquisition process necessary for the airport expansion has already been completed.
In response, the Union Minister directed officials to finalize the techno-economic feasibility report for the Kangra Airport expansion project within two months. He also instructed them to appoint a qualified consultant to ensure the report is prepared within the specified timeframe.
Sukhu expressed optimism that if the report is completed on schedule, the expansion project could progress swiftly. He urged the Airports Authority of India (AAI) to conduct a realistic assessment of the project’s costs.
The Chief Minister also raised the issue of the heliport network being developed across various regions of the state. Given Himachal Pradesh’s challenging geography, he stressed the need for heliports to improve access to remote areas and provide emergency services.
Sukhu sought the central government’s support for heliport construction, to which the Union Minister agreed to provide financial assistance under the Udaan scheme.
Additionally, the meeting covered the operation of regular flights from Shimla Airport. The Union Minister assured Sukhu of all possible support to establish regular air connectivity for Shimla and discussed the feasibility of operating suitable aircraft based on the airport’s runway capacity.
Sukhu proposed that the security arrangements at Shimla Airport be handed over to the Himachal Pradesh Police instead of the Central Industrial Security Force. The central ministry agreed to this proposal.
Sukhu reiterated the state government’s commitment to strengthening air connectivity in Himachal Pradesh. The expansion of Kangra Airport, regular flights from Shimla, and a robust heliport network will not only invigorate the tourism sector but also provide better connectivity for residents in remote and difficult-to-reach areas.
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