Dhami Pushes Uttarakhand Air Projects in Talks with Civil Aviation Minister.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami held a crucial meeting with Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu recently, advocating for the rapid development of aviation infrastructure in the state to improve air connectivity and boost tourism.  

Key points discussed during the meeting included the expansion of Pantnagar Airport, for which the Uttarakhand government has already transferred 524.78 acres of land to the Airports Authority of India (AAI). Dhami urged the Union Minister to expedite the project, which involves extending the runway from 1,372 meters to 3,000 meters to accommodate larger aircraft and improve flight operations, based on the master plan already prepared by AAI.  

The Chief Minister also requested the expansion of Dehradun's Jolly Grant Airport and the extension of night operations until midnight to enhance passenger convenience. Additionally, he pushed for the commencement of regular flights under the UDAN Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) from Naini Saini Airport in Pithoragarh to Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi, highlighting its potential to significantly improve air connectivity in the state.  

Dhami further proposed the introduction of air services from Pithoragarh to Dharchula and Munsyari, aiming to improve accessibility for residents in the remote region. He also sought enhanced support for night-time operations at Naini Saini Airport, suggesting an extension of the airport's watch hours.  

Recognizing Pithoragarh's strategic location near the borders of Tibet (China) and Nepal, the Chief Minister emphasized the importance of robust air connectivity for both public convenience and national security.  

To promote local products and crafts, Dhami proposed the opening of "House of Himalayas" stalls at Dehradun, Pithoragarh, and Pantnagar airports. He also advocated for direct air routes from Dehradun to Haldwani, Pantnagar, and Nagpur, and the introduction of international flights from Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun.  

Finally, the Uttarakhand CM requested that the Union Ministry initiate operations at the airstrips in Chinyalisour and Gauchar following necessary inspections.  

Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu assured Chief Minister Dhami of positive and prompt action on all the proposals presented.