The Himachal Pradesh government is developing a ₹19.77 crore heliport in Palampur (Kangra district) to launch helicopter services under the UDAN scheme, aimed at boosting high-end tourism and connecting remote areas to Chandigarh and Shimla. Key highlights include a 2026 completion date for the new facility and affordable, efficient air travel to, enhancing regional tourism and infrastructure.
Key Highlights of the Palampur Heliport Project
- Infrastructure: A new heliport is under construction in Palampur with a cost of approximately ₹19.77 crore, featuring a passenger terminal building, fire station, and utility building.
- Connectivity: The service aims to connect Palampur directly to state capital Shimla and Chandigarh, significantly reducing travel time.
- Timeline: The project is expected to be completed by April 2026.
- UDAN Scheme: These services are part of the central government’s Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik (UDAN) scheme to make air travel affordable and accessible.
- Operator: The services are facilitated by the state government, similar to the 6-seater Airbus H125 operations initiated at other state heliports.
Impact on Region
- Tourism Boost: The initiative is designed to attract high-end tourists to Palampur, strengthening the local economy.
- Improved Access: Provides a quick, dependable alternative to road travel, especially during peak seasons or when roads are affected by weather.
- Economic Growth & Employment: The development of heliports generates direct and indirect employment opportunities for local youth.
- Healthcare Access: Offers faster, critical transportation for emergency medical services.
Future Scope
- Development of Tourism Village: A proposal is underway to develop a Tourism Village in Palampur to complement the new air connectivity.
- Network Expansion: The project is part of a larger, state-wide initiative to build heliports at all district headquarters, enhancing Himachal Pradesh’s overall tourism infrastructure.
- Kangra as Tourism Capital: This initiative supports the broader goal of establishing Kangra as the tourism capital of Himachal Pradesh.