Dhami Discusses Expansion of Air Services in Uttarakhand with Union Civil Aviation Minister

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami met Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu in New Delhi on Friday and held detailed discussions on improving air connectivity, expansion of aviation infrastructure, and boosting tourism in the hill state.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister expressed gratitude to the Union Minister for continuous support to Uttarakhand in the aviation sector. He especially appreciated the initiative of kiosks under the umbrella brand ‘House of Himalayas’ at airports, saying it has given recognition to the state’s local products at national and international platforms.

Heli Services for Char Dham Yatra

The Chief Minister informed that heli services for Char Dham Yatra will be resumed after the monsoon season, as these services are crucial for elderly, differently-abled, and other devotees. He added that coordination between state and central agencies is underway, and a high-level meeting on September 1 provided important inputs for smooth and safe operations. Restarting heli services, he said, will ease the journey of pilgrims and reduce pressure on road networks.

Focus on Air Connectivity in Hill Districts

Highlighting that more than 70 percent of Uttarakhand’s area is covered with forests, the Chief Minister said air connectivity is vital not only for tourism but also for civil transport and disaster management. He urged the development of Gauchar (Chamoli) and Chinyalisaur (Uttarkashi) airstrips for small aircraft operations and connecting them with Delhi, Dehradun, and Hindon, which would enhance Char Dham Yatra convenience and ensure supply of essential commodities in remote areas.

Night Air Service at Jolly Grant & Expansion of Pantnagar Airport

The Chief Minister requested the introduction of night air services at Jolly Grant Airport, enabling more passengers to benefit from air travel. He also discussed the expansion of Pantnagar Airport, stating that most of the necessary work has already been completed by the state government and urged the Airports Authority of India to begin pending works at the earliest.

In a separate development, the Central Government has released an advance amount of ₹455 crore 60 lakh to Uttarakhand as the central share of the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) for FY 2025–26, as recommended by the 15th Finance Commission.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah for the timely release of funds. He said the amount will be used for disaster relief works in Uttarakhand. “Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has always extended unwavering support to Uttarakhand in difficult times. The people of the state are deeply grateful for his continuous guidance and assistance,” the Chief Minister added.