Sky-High Connectivity: Himachal CM Launches Helicopter Services to Rampur and Kinnaur
CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu inaugurates helicopter services linking Shimla, Rampur, and Kinnaur to boost tourism and emergency healthcare.
In a major move to bridge the gap between the mountains and the mainland, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has officially inaugurated new helicopter services connecting Shimla with Rampur and Kinnaur. The launch, held at the Sanjauli Heliport in Shimla, marks a significant step in improving accessibility to the state's most remote and tribal regions.
Bridging the Gap to Remote Regions
Speaking to the press, Chief Minister Sukhu highlighted that these services are designed to do more than just transport people; they are a lifeline for the remote areas of Himachal Pradesh. The CM emphasized that the new air connectivity will play a pivotal role in promoting tourism and, more critically, providing rapid access to healthcare during medical emergencies.
The journey to this launch began with direct feedback from the people. During a recent visit to Rampur, the Chief Minister was informed that while the helipad was ready, flights had not yet commenced. Following discussions with the Union Civil Aviation Minister and the approval of the state's share of viability gap funding (VGF), a regular flight schedule was established.
Flight Routes and Schedules
The helicopter service is structured to ensure maximum reach into the tribal heartlands. The flight path begins in Shimla, travels to Rampur, and then proceeds toward Rekong Peo. According to Shimla District Tourism Development Officer Jagdish Sharma, the flights are scheduled to operate three times a week, specifically on Mondays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
The pricing for these services is as follows:
- Shimla to Rampur: Approximately Rs 3,642 (or around Rs 4,000 as per Pawan Hans estimates).
- Rampur to Rekong Peo: Approximately Rs 4,200.
The Road Ahead: Expanding the Horizon
The Himachal government isn't stopping at Kinnaur. Chief Minister Sukhu revealed an ambitious roadmap to expand air connectivity across the state. Within the next three to four months, the government plans to introduce air services to:
- Hamirpur
- Chamba
- Palampur
- Manali
Addressing the challenge of Shimla's geography, where land for a full-scale airport is limited, the CM mentioned that the government is exploring the use of a 17-seater helicopter to connect Shimla directly with Chandigarh.
Boosting Tourism and Infrastructure
Manish Rokade, Executive Director (Marketing) of Pawan Hans, explained that the services will initially link Chandigarh with Sanjauli (Shimla), then extend to Rampur and Rekong Peo, and eventually reach Manali. The Manali connection is expected to be a game-changer for the travel industry, as tourists could potentially reach the destination from Shimla within just one hour, with fares estimated around Rs 6,000.
Rokade further noted that Pawan Hans is in discussions with the state government to operate a larger 26-seater MI-172 helicopter to accommodate more passengers. He clarified that these state-funded routes are distinct from those operated under the Centre's UDAN scheme.
Developing a Hub at Kangra
The vision for a connected Himachal also involves the expansion of the Kangra airport. Chief Minister Sukhu stated that the state has already disbursed approximately Rs 2,400 crore for land acquisition and the rehabilitation of affected families. Once expanded, the Kangra airport is envisioned as a central hub that will link various district headquarters through a network of helicopter services.
To support this growing network, the state is also actively developing new helipads in various district headquarters, including Solan and Sirmaur, ensuring that no corner of the state remains isolated.