The Uttarakhand civil aviation department has proposed building helipads at the entrances of major mountain tunnels to improve disaster response in the hill state. Officials say the move will help deliver faster relief in areas where road access is often blocked or delayed due to difficult terrain.
Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority (UCADA) CEO Ashish Chauhan said helicopter services are crucial during emergencies in mountainous regions. He explained that landslides and road closures frequently slow down rescue work, and strategically placed helipads can make relief operations quicker and more efficient.
Officials said the plan will gain strong support from the Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL)-executed Rishikesh–Karnaprayag Railway Project. The 125-kilometre railway line is one of the most important infrastructure projects in Uttarakhand.
Because of the fragile Himalayan terrain, more than 80 percent of the railway alignment runs through tunnels. Authorities believe the tunnel portals provide safe and accessible locations for setting up helipads that can double as emergency response hubs.
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Several tunnels under construction pass through geologically sensitive zones. Officials recalled the Silyara tunnel collapse in Uttarkashi in November 2023, when 41 workers were trapped for 17 days, highlighting the need for stronger emergency infrastructure.
A senior official said tunnel portals are usually located at secure and reachable points, making them ideal for coordinated rescue operations. At present, 18 heliports are being developed across Uttarakhand, and helicopter services have already started at 12 locations. Authorities expect the new plan to significantly improve the state’s disaster preparedness.
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