Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu held a crucial meeting with Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia on Friday (January 5) to discuss the ambitious plans for the expansion of Kangra airport and the establishment of heliports across Himachal Pradesh.
The primary focus of the discussion was the proposed expansion of Kangra airport, which aims to extend the runway from 1,376 meters to 3,010 meters.
Expansion of Kangra airport
This extension is crucial for accommodating larger aircraft, including the Airbus A320. The estimated cost for the project, excluding land acquisition compensation, is set at Rs 10,995.69 crore.
During the meeting, the chief minister urged Scindia to expedite the approval process and direct the Airports Authority of India to commence the expansion work.
CM Sukhu assured that the state government would efficiently complete the land acquisition process, emphasising the economic and infrastructural benefits that the expanded airport would bring to the region.
Setting up heliports in Himachal Pradesh
Furthermore, CM Sukhu expressed the state government’s intent to construct heliports in district headquarters and tribal areas. He appealed to Minister Scindia to endorse a proposal for the establishment of nine heliports in the state.
Highlighting the importance of heliports, Sukhu emphasised their role in promoting tourism in tribal and remote areas, facilitating emergency medical services, and aiding in the evacuation of local residents and tourists stranded in snow-bound regions.
Activation of Sanjauli heliport
The chief minister also engaged in discussions with the Union minister regarding the activation of the Sanjauli heliport, urging for increased flights from Chandigarh to Kullu to cater to the needs of tourists. Currently, Shimla has three operational flights, Dharamshala has four, while Kullu has only one, which Sukhu deemed insufficient given the high influx of tourists to Kullu and Manali.
In response, Scindia conveyed that four heliports in Rakkad, Palampur, Chamba, and Reckong Peo were under consideration as part of the ‘UDAN’ scheme. He directed ministry officers to expedite the operationalisation of the Sanjauli heliport, assuring Chief Minister Sukhu of complete support from the ministry.
