CM Dhami Meets Union Civil Aviation Minister, Discusses Expansion of Air Services in Uttarakhand
Heli Services to Resume for Char Dham Yatra, Night Flights Proposed from Jolly Grant Airport
New Delhi. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Friday met Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu in New Delhi and held extensive discussions on strengthening air connectivity, expanding aviation infrastructure, and boosting tourism in the state.
Expressing gratitude on behalf of the people of Uttarakhand, the Chief Minister appreciated the continuous support received from the Union Civil Aviation Ministry. He especially lauded the initiative of establishing kiosks under the “House of Himalayas” brand at airports to promote local products, saying that it has given Uttarakhand’s traditional items national and international recognition.
Heli Services for Char Dham Yatra
The Chief Minister informed the Union Minister that the state government plans to resume heli services for the Char Dham Yatra after the monsoon season. These services will particularly benefit elderly, differently-abled, and unfit pilgrims. He added that coordination between the state and central departments is already underway, and a high-level meeting held on September 1st provided several crucial suggestions for resuming heli operations. He stressed that ensuring the safety and convenience of pilgrims will not only ease the journey but also reduce pressure on road routes.
Need for Air Connectivity in Hill Districts
Highlighting that over 70% of Uttarakhand’s geographical area is forest-covered, CM Dhami emphasized that air connectivity is essential for the state’s hilly districts—not just for tourism, but also for civilian movement and disaster management. He requested the development of Gauchar (Chamoli) and Chinyalisaur (Uttarkashi) airstrips for small aircraft operations and their connection with Delhi, Dehradun, and Hindon. This, he said, would facilitate Char Dham Yatra and improve the supply of essential commodities to remote areas.
Night Flights & Airport Expansion
The Chief Minister also urged the Union Minister to start night flight services from Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun) to accommodate more passengers. He further discussed the expansion of Pantnagar Airport, informing that the state government has already completed most of the required works, and requested directions to the Airports Authority of India (AAI) for early commencement of pending works.
Regional Connectivity (UDAN Scheme)
Under the UDAN scheme, CM Dhami requested the initiation of regular flights between Delhi and Pithoragarh, stating that it would be highly beneficial from tourism, strategic, and humanitarian perspectives. He also recommended prompt action for launching services at Chinyalisaur and Gauchar airstrips after inspection.
Union Minister’s Assurance
The Chief Minister urged the Union Minister to give priority approval to all these proposals. Responding positively, Naidu assured CM Dhami of full support and constructive action on the state’s requests.
