"Himachal Pradesh Begins Disbursing Compensation for Kangra Airport Expansion"

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced recently that the Himachal Pradesh government has begun disbursing compensation for the expansion of Kangra Airport, fulfilling a commitment made in the first budget of the current administration.

The compensation process will initiate with landowners in the village of Jugehar in the Shahpur area of Kangra district. A total of ₹32.50 crore will be distributed to these landowners, with an estimated ₹3,500 crore allocated over time for compensation, rehabilitation, and resettlement for all landowners affected by the airport expansion.

CM Sukhu noted that the landowners in Jugehar have welcomed this decision, which addresses their long-standing demand. He emphasized that the expansion of Kangra Airport is a top priority for the government, aimed at boosting the region's tourism sector.

The airport expansion is expected to significantly enhance tourism and align with the government's vision of positioning Kangra district as the Tourism Capital of the state. Under the proposed plans, the runway length will be extended from 1,376 meters to 3,010 meters, allowing for the operation of A320-type aircraft.

The Chief Minister stated that the expansion will create new employment and self-employment opportunities, fostering economic prosperity for the residents of Kangra district.

ET