Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu recently met with Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu to discuss significant plans for boosting air connectivity across the state.
Pushing for Daily Flights and Night Services
During their meeting in New Delhi, Chief Minister Sukhu strongly urged the Union Minister to increase the frequency of flights between Delhi, Shimla, and Dharamshala. Currently, these routes operate only three days a week, which has proven inconvenient for tourists and residents alike.
The Chief Minister emphasized the need for daily flight operations to enhance accessibility. Additionally, he requested the initiation of night landing facilities at Dharamshala airport, a move that would further improve operational flexibility and convenience.
Accelerating Kangra Airport Expansion
A key point of discussion was the ongoing expansion of Kangra airport. CM Sukhu provided an update on the project’s status and sought special financial assistance from the Union Ministry for the land acquisition process.
He highlighted the high cost of land as a major hurdle and mentioned that this issue had also been brought to the attention of the Prime Minister in a previous interaction. The Chief Minister stressed that continued support from the Civil Aviation Ministry is vital for accelerating development in the region.
Enhancing Shimla’s Air Services
Discussions also revolved around the expansion and operational improvements at Shimla airport. CM Sukhu requested an extension of the airport’s operational watch hours beyond 1 PM, allowing for more flexible flight schedules.
He proposed the introduction of Dornier-type aircraft at Shimla, drawing parallels with successful implementations in India’s Northeastern states. Furthermore, he urged the Ministry to encourage more operators to commence flight services to Shimla, aiming to increase competition and options for travelers.
New Heliports to Boost Tourism
To further strengthen air connectivity and give a significant boost to tourism, Chief Minister Sukhu requested the construction of four new heliports across the state. These new facilities would provide vital access to remote areas and enhance overall travel convenience within Himachal Pradesh.
Key Takeaways from the Meeting:
- Daily flights requested for Delhi-Shimla-Dharamshala routes to improve tourist access.
- Special central assistance sought for costly land acquisition for Kangra airport expansion.
- Proposals made to extend Shimla airport’s operational hours and introduce new aircraft types.
- Four new heliports requested to enhance state-wide air connectivity and tourism.
The meeting saw the presence of key officials, including Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena and Principal Advisor to the Chief Minister, Ram Subhag Singh. This push for improved air infrastructure is part of a broader effort by the state government to enhance connectivity and economic growth.
