Dehradun: The Indian Air Force (IAF) will now operate the airstrips at Chinyalisaur in Uttarkashi district and Gauchar in Chamoli district in Uttarakhand. Meanwhile, the airport at Pithoragarh will be managed by the Airports Authority of India (AAI). This move is part of the state government’s effort to expand air services in border areas, which will help local residents and meet strategic defense needs.
The Uttarakhand government has given its in-principle approval to hand over the Chinyalisaur and Gauchar airstrips to the IAF. Similarly, the Pithoragarh airport will operate under the AAI. To formalize this, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) will be signed between the state government and the AAI.
The state is also planning a major expansion of the Pithoragarh airport. The expansion project is estimated to cost ₹450 crore. The plan includes building a one-kilometer-long airstrip that will connect Gunji to the Adi Kailash area. The Air Force will provide technical support for this construction.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami emphasized the importance of expanding the air network in the state. He said that it will not only benefit local people but also serve the strategic requirements of the region.
The Union Civil Aviation Minister, Ram Mohan Naidu, informed Chief Minister Dhami that helicopter services between Pithoragarh and Munsyari, under the Udan scheme, are expected to start by September 30. The government has selected Heritage Aviation to provide this service.
Dhami has also requested support from the Union Minister to expand helicopter services in Uttarakhand. Plans are being made to start heli services on the Pithoragarh-Dharchula route as well. For this, land will be needed to build a helipad in Dharchula. The initial approval has already been given to Heritage Aviation to operate this route.
This expansion is part of a larger plan to improve connectivity in Uttarakhand’s border districts. The government aims to provide easier access for residents while also strengthening the state’s strategic infrastructure.
Currently, Chinyalisaur and Gauchar airstrips are relatively small, and the IAF’s operation will increase their utility. The Pithoragarh airport expansion will make it possible to handle larger aircraft and provide regular air services for both passengers and cargo. This will also boost tourism and trade in the region.
The Pithoragarh-Gunji-Adi Kailash airstrip will be particularly important for pilgrims and tourists visiting the sacred Adi Kailash area. Once operational, it will significantly reduce travel time and improve safety in this hilly region.
IAF involvement ensures that the airstrips will meet security and operational standards required for both civilian and strategic purposes. The expansion plans for Pithoragarh airport are expected to create job opportunities and support local businesses during construction and later through increased tourism.
The government is also focusing on building a robust air network that connects remote areas to larger towns and cities. Helicopter services under the Udan scheme will provide a quick and reliable mode of transport for people in hilly and border regions.
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Overall, the Uttarakhand government’s initiative to improve air connectivity is aimed at balancing development, strategic requirements, and accessibility. With the IAF operating Chinyalisaur and Gauchar airstrips, and AAI managing Pithoragarh airport, the state is taking significant steps to strengthen its transport and defense infrastructure.
The project also reflects the government’s commitment to supporting tourism in the region. Pilgrims, travelers, and locals will benefit from shorter travel times and safer air travel options. Once the new airstrip at Pithoragarh is ready, the connectivity between Gunji, Adi Kailash, and other remote areas will be much better than before.
In conclusion, the operation of Chinyalisaur and Gauchar airstrips by the IAF, along with the expansion of Pithoragarh airport by the AAI, marks a major step in Uttarakhand’s development. The combined effort of the state and central government agencies will improve accessibility, meet strategic needs, and boost the region’s economy and tourism.
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