Bhuntar Airport Expansion: A Boost for Tourism in Himachal Pradesh

Bhuntar Airport in Himachal Pradesh has received clearance under the Forest Conservation Act (FCA), paving the way for its expansion, announced Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Friday. This development is expected to boost tourism and enhance safety measures at the airport.

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Widening the Airport for Bigger Aircraft

The airport expansion will involve widening it to accommodate larger aircraft, thereby increasing the footfall of tourists and facilitating locals. The Chief Minister highlighted that the airport will now meet the regulatory standards set by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), ensuring improved safety measures.

Boosting Tourism in Kullu and Lahaul

Bhuntar Airport plays a crucial role in promoting tourism activities in Kullu and Lahaul, attracting a significant number of tourists. The expansion will further enhance the influx of both domestic and international travelers, contributing to the growth of the tourism industry in the region.

Direct Flights from Amritsar to Kullu

Chief Minister Sukhu also mentioned the operational direct flights connecting Amritsar to Kullu. The airport expansion will complement these flights, catering to the increased demand for air travel and making it more convenient for tourists to reach the region.

Tourism as the Mainstay of Himachal Pradesh's Economy

The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of tourism as a mainstay of Himachal Pradesh's economy, with thousands of families associated with this key sector. The government is committed to promoting tourism and has allocated a substantial budget of Rs 3,000 crore to the sector. The aim is to attract over five crore tourists annually to the state, and efforts are being made to achieve this target.

The expansion of Bhuntar Airport, backed by the Forest Conservation Act clearance, is a significant step towards enhancing tourism infrastructure in Himachal Pradesh. By accommodating larger aircraft, improving safety measures, and attracting more tourists, the airport will contribute to the growth of the state's economy and provide better connectivity for both locals and visitors.