Highlighting the vast geographical expanse, challenging terrain, and severe weather conditions of Ladakh, Gupta emphasized that improved air connectivity is essential for many residents, rather than a luxury.
The revised subsidized fares and expanded routes, including Leh–Kargil, Leh–Padum, Leh–Lingshad, Leh–Dibling, Leh–Nyerak, Leh–Diskit, and Leh–Turtuk, are set to provide quicker and more affordable travel options for both locals and tourists, according to officials.
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The LG noted that the upgraded services would act as a vital resource during medical emergencies, particularly in winter when numerous road links close due to heavy snowfall. This helicopter network will enable prompt patient evacuations, transportation of essential supplies, and better access to administrative services in remote villages, he added.
Referencing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, Gupta stated that the government is focused on accelerating development in border areas through enhanced connectivity, improved infrastructure, and greater opportunities for youth and local communities.
The helicopter services are anticipated to greatly enhance Ladakh’s tourism potential by facilitating access to remote areas renowned for their natural beauty and cultural heritage, he mentioned.
LG Gupta expressed appreciation for the civil aviation authorities, district administration, and other stakeholders for operationalizing this initiative, noting that upgraded aviation infrastructure will contribute to economic growth, create jobs, and ensure better integration of remote communities with district headquarters.
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Chief Secretary Pawan Kotwal indicated a rising demand for reliable helicopter services among residents of Zanskar and Singge-Lalok, especially during the winter months when road connectivity is often disrupted. He mentioned that citizens can book these services through an online system.
Recently, Gupta remarked that new infrastructure projects completed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) in Ladakh underscore the central government’s commitment to advancing the development of the Union Territory. He made these comments during the inauguration of 125 BRO infrastructure projects, including the Shayok tunnel on the Darbuk-Shyok-Daulat Beg Oldie Road in Ladakh by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
Spanning two Union Territories, Ladakh and Jammu-Kashmir, as well as seven states—Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, West Bengal, and Mizoram—these projects, comprising 28 roads, 93 bridges, and four miscellaneous ones, have been completed at an estimated cost of around Rs 5,000 crore, marking the highest-value inaugurations in BRO’s history.
(Edited by : Jerome Anthony)
