Improved air connectivity, will open distant destinations to tourist: Govt
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Image Source Internet
To increase the footfall of tourists and achieve the target of tourist arrivals to around five crore annually, emphasis is being placed on strengthening air connectivity. Sixteen heliports are being constructed in all the district headquarters, including tribal and far-flung areas, in a phased manner to facilitate tourists’ access to unexplored destinations quickly. A meeting was presided over on late Friday evening in this regard, with a detailed presentation on how to enhance tourism influx to achieve the desired target.
In the first phase, nine heliports are to be developed, including Jaskot in district Hamirpur, Rakkar and Palampur in Kangra, Sultanpur in district Chamba, Manali in Kullu, Jispa, Sissu, and Rangreek in Lahaul-Spiti, and Sharbo in district Kinnaur. Detailed project reports (DPRs) for the construction of Sultanpur, Rakkar, Palampur, and Jaskot heliports have been received, while the process is underway for the other heliports. Additionally, Kangra Airport is being expanded to facilitate high-end tourists.
In the second phase, the remaining seven heliports will be set up in Pangi and Holi in district Chamba, Auhar in district Bilaspur, Dharkiyari in district Sirmaur, Chanshal in district Shimla, Jankaur-Haar in district Una, and Galanag in district Solan. FCA approval for establishing Rakkar heliport has been received, and FCA cases of six heliports, including Jaskot, Manali, Jispa, Sissu, Rangrik, Pangi, and Holi, have been uploaded on the portal.
Once fully commissioned, these heliports will prove to be a boon to the tourism sector of the State. Improved accessibility to destinations often attracts more travelers, providing a boost to the local tourism industry and contributing to the economy. Tourism is a key sector for the State’s economy, offering employment and self-employment opportunities to the local youth.
The State Government has decided to make district Kangra the ‘Tourism Capital’ of the State and will invest approximately Rs. 3000 crore in this mega venture, bringing forth numerous new projects in the future.
