Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has sought stronger support from the Centre to expand air connectivity and aviation infrastructure in the state, with the proposed expansion of Kangra Airport emerging as a key priority.
The Chief Minister met Union Minister for Civil Aviation Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu in New Delhi and discussed several measures aimed at improving air connectivity, supporting tourism and strengthening access to remote areas of Himachal Pradesh.
Centre Sets Deadline for Kangra Airport Feasibility Report
During the meeting, the expansion of Kangra Airport was discussed as a priority project for the state. Chief Minister Sukhu highlighted the airport’s importance to Himachal Pradesh’s tourism economy, pointing out that better air connectivity could make it easier for visitors to reach the state and contribute to the growth of tourism-related activities.
He informed the Union Minister that the land acquisition required for the airport expansion has already been completed. Taking note of the matter, Naidu directed the concerned authorities to complete the techno-economic feasibility report for the project within two months.
The Civil Aviation Ministry has also been asked to appoint a competent consultant to undertake the necessary assessment and ensure that the report is completed within the specified timeframe.
Sukhu said that completion of the feasibility report within the deadline would help accelerate the expansion project. He also urged the Airports Authority of India (AAI) to conduct a realistic assessment of the expected project cost so that further action could be taken on a clear financial basis.
Funding Support for Heliports Under UDAN
The state government also raised the need to strengthen its heliport network. Given Himachal Pradesh’s mountainous terrain and the difficulties associated with road connectivity in several regions, the Chief Minister said heliports could play an important role in improving access to remote and inaccessible locations.
He emphasised that a stronger network of heliports would not only improve transportation options but could also provide vital support during emergencies and other situations requiring rapid access to difficult-to-reach areas.
The Centre agreed to provide financial assistance for the construction of heliports in Himachal Pradesh under the UDAN scheme. The decision is expected to support the state’s efforts to expand aviation facilities beyond conventional airports.
Regular Flights to Shimla Discussed
The meeting also focused on improving scheduled air services from Shimla Airport. The Union Civil Aviation Minister assured the state government of necessary support for facilitating regular flights to the state capital.
Officials and representatives also discussed the possibility of deploying aircraft that are suitable for the runway capacity and operational requirements of Shimla Airport. The availability of appropriate aircraft is expected to be an important factor in establishing reliable regular services.
Shimla Airport Security Proposal Accepted
Another issue raised by the Chief Minister concerned security arrangements at Shimla Airport. Sukhu requested that security responsibilities at the airport be entrusted to the Himachal Pradesh Police, following the arrangement being sought on the lines of Kangra Airport, instead of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF).
The Union Ministry agreed to the state government’s proposal, providing a significant outcome from the meeting.
Focus on Tourism and Remote Connectivity
The Himachal Pradesh government has maintained that improved air connectivity is essential for both economic development and public convenience in the mountainous state. Expansion of Kangra Airport, regular flights from Shimla and additional heliports are expected to strengthen connectivity across different regions.
According to the Chief Minister, these initiatives could provide a dual benefit by supporting tourism while also improving transportation options for people living in remote and far-flung parts of Himachal Pradesh.
Senior officials present during the meeting included Principal Advisor to the Chief Minister Ram Subhag Singh, Principal Secretary (Finance) Devesh Kumar, Secretary to the Chief Minister Rakesh Kanwar and Principal Resident Commissioner Ajay Kumar, along with other senior officials.
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Author: Shivam
Shivam Dwivedi is a senior journalist with extensive experience in research-driven journalism, policy communication, and multi-platform storytelling. His areas of interest include international relations, defence, science & technology, education, urban development, agriculture, spirituality, and environmental sustainability. His work focuses on in-depth analysis, public discourse, and impactful narratives across governance and development sectors, with a strong commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Contact: [email protected]
