Punjab Newsline, Shimla/New Delhi-
CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu called on Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu at New Delhi on Monday and held detailed discussions about strengthening air connectivity in the state.
The Chief Minister urged the Union Minister to operate Delhi-Shimla-Dharamshala and Dharamshala-Shimla-Delhi flights on a daily basis, highlighting that at present, these flights were operational only three days a week, causing inconvenience to the tourists. He also requested the commencement of night landing facilities at Dharamshala airport.
Shri Sukhu apprised the Union Minister about the status of the Kangra airport expansion and sought special assistance for the land acquisition process, citing its high cost. He mentioned that the issue had also been raised with the Prime Minister during a previous meeting and sought the continued support of the Ministry of Civil Aviation, emphasizing that this would accelerate the region's development.
The Chief Minister also requested the construction of four new heliports to further strengthen air connectivity and boost tourism in the state.
Discussions were also held regarding the expansion of Shimla airport. The Chief Minister urged the Union Minister to extend the operational watch hours beyond 1 p.m. at Shimla airport and also proposed the operation of Dornier-type aircraft at Shimla, following the example of the northeastern states. He emphasized the need to encourage additional operators to start flight services to Shimla.
Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena, Principal Advisor to the Chief Minister Ram Subhag Singh, Principal Resident Commissioner Sushil Kumar Singla and senior officers of the Ministry of Civil Aviation were also present during the meeting.