DHARAMSHALA: In a significant push to boost tourism in the region, BJP MLA from Dharamshala, Sudhir Sharma, emphasized the need to establish air connectivity from Dharamshala to major cities such as Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Amritsar, and Mumbai.
Speaking at the Airport Advisory Committee meeting held today, Sharma highlighted that a large number of tourists visiting Dharamshala originate from these cities, and improved air connectivity would greatly benefit the local tourism industry.
Currently, Gaggal Airport, which handles the highest air traffic in Himachal Pradesh, offers flights to Delhi, Chandigarh, and Shimla. Expanding these connections, Sharma argued, would further cement Dharamshala as a key tourist destination.
The meeting, chaired by Lok Sabha MP Dr. Rajiv Bhardwaj, focused on making the Gaggal airport more user-friendly and improving facilities for passengers. Dr. Bhardwaj directed officials to enhance the airport complex in line with tourism needs and stressed the importance of bolstering airport security. He also urged the administration to initiate a shuttle bus service from the airport to key destinations and to remove any unsafe trees near the airport premises.
Promoting Local Culture and Heritage
Shahpur MLA and Deputy Chief Whip, Kewal Singh Pathania, underscored the importance of promoting the region's cultural and historical heritage. He proposed installing signboards and information panels at Kangra Airport that highlight major temples, Shaktipeeths, and tourist attractions to enrich the experience for visitors.
Airport Expansion and Facilities
Deputy Commissioner Kangra, Hemraj Bairwa, briefed the committee on the ongoing airport expansion plans, assuring that the government is moving forward with full commitment, keeping in mind the aspirations of the local population and the region's development needs.
Kangra Airport Director, Dhirendra Singh, provided an update on current airport activities and passenger facilities. He also mentioned that applications for the space available under the "Avsar Yojana" initiative, aimed at local self-help groups, are still open.
The meeting was attended by prominent officials, including Himachal’s Deputy Chief Whip and Shahpur MLA Kewal Singh Pathania, ASP Hitesh Lakhanpal, IAS probationer Dr. Anjali Garg, District Tourism Development Officer Vinay Dhiman, SDM Shahpur Kartar Chand, SDM Kangra Ishant Jaswal, SDM Dharamshala Sanjeev Bhot, and other officials from various departments.