Shimla, Jan 21,
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Wednesday inaugurated helicopter services under the UDAN scheme at Sanjauli Heliport, Shimla, with the objective of improving air connectivity to remote and difficult terrain areas of the state.
The initiative is expected to ease travel for residents, boost tourism, and strengthen administrative and emergency response mechanisms.
According to the official tour programme, the Chief Minister left the HP Secretariat, Shimla, at 10.50 am and reached Sanjauli Heliport at 11.00 am by road. At the heliport, he formally launched the helicopter service connecting important destinations within Himachal Pradesh and adjoining regions.
The newly introduced routes include a daily flight from Sanjauli Heliport, Shimla to the ITBP Helipad at Reckong Peo, two daily flights from Sanjauli to Kullu Airport, and a Chandigarh–Shimla–Chandigarh service operating three days a week on Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays.
Officials said these services would significantly reduce travel time to far-flung areas and improve access to essential services.
After the inauguration, the Chief Minister departed from Sanjauli Heliport at 11.30 am and returned to the HP Secretariat, Shimla, by 11.40 am. The state government clarified that helicopter operations will remain subject to weather conditions and operational requirements.
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