Uttarakhand Takes Flight: Dhami's Ambitious Aviation Agenda

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami recently held a key meeting with Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, urging swift action to enhance aviation infrastructure and air connectivity across the state to support tourism and regional development.

During the meeting, Dhami emphasized the urgent need to expand Pantnagar Airport, noting that the state government has already transferred 524.78 acres of land to the Airports Authority of India (AAI). He requested the Union Minister to expedite the runway extension project—from 1,372 meters to 3,000 meters—to accommodate larger aircraft, in line with AAI's master plan.

The Chief Minister also called for the expansion of Dehradun's Jolly Grant Airport and an extension of night operations until midnight to improve passenger convenience. Additionally, he pushed for regular flights under the UDAN Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) from Naini Saini Airport (Pithoragarh) to Delhi, which would significantly boost accessibility in the hilly regions.

Further proposals included starting air services from Pithoragarh to Dharchula and Munsyari, and extending watch hours at Naini Saini Airport to support night operations. Highlighting Pithoragarh's strategic location near the India-Nepal and India-China borders, Dhami stressed the importance of strong air connectivity for both public convenience and national security.

To promote regional crafts and products, Dhami proposed setting up "House of Himalayas" stalls at airports in Dehradun, Pantnagar, and Pithoragarh. He also recommended launching direct flights from Dehradun to Haldwani, Pantnagar, and Nagpur, and the introduction of international flights from Jolly Grant Airport.

Finally, the Chief Minister requested the operationalization of Chinyalisour and Gauchar airstrips after necessary inspections.

In response, Civil Aviation Minister Naidu assured full cooperation and committed to acting promptly on the proposals.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.