Shimla: Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today met Union Minister for Civil Aviation Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu in New Delhi and held detailed discussions on various issues related to strengthening air connectivity and expanding aviation infrastructure in Himachal Pradesh.
The Chief Minister took up the matter of expansion of Kangra Airport on priority, highlighting its importance for tourism development in the State. He said tourism plays a significant role in the State’s economy and that improved air connectivity would facilitate the movement of tourists and provide further impetus to tourism activities.
The Centre agreed to provide funding for the construction of heliports in Himachal Pradesh under the UDAN scheme. The operation of regular flights from Shimla Airport was also discussed during the meeting. The Union Civil Aviation Minister assured necessary support for providing regular air connectivity to Shimla.
The Chief Minister further urged that, on the lines of Kangra Airport, the security arrangements at Shimla Airport be entrusted to the Himachal Pradesh Police instead of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF). The Union Ministry agreed to the proposal.
