Dehradun: The Indian Air Force will operate the Chinyalisaur (Uttarkashi) and Gauchar (Chamoli) airstrips. Meanwhile, the Pithoragarh airport will be operated by the Airport Authority of India (AAI). The government is also planning to expand the Pithoragarh airport, with an estimated cost of ₹450 crore.
The state government is focusing on expanding air services in the border districts. This will benefit local residents as well as meet strategic (defense-related) needs. As part of this initiative, the state government has given in-principle approval to hand over the operation of the Chinyalisaur and Gauchar airstrips to the Indian Air Force. Considering the growing air services at Pithoragarh airport, the state government has agreed in principle to hand over its operation to the Airport Authority of India. A memorandum of understanding (MoU) has been agreed upon between the state government and AAI. The government is also planning to expand the Pithoragarh airport at a cost of approximately ₹450 crore.
“Expanding the air network in border regions is essential. It will not only serve local residents but also fulfill strategic requirements. For this, cooperation from the Air Force will be taken. The expansion of Pithoragarh airport will be carried out soon.” Pushkar Singh Dhami, Chief Minister of Uttarakhand.
In addition, the government is preparing to build a 1-km long airstrip at Gunji, to start air services to the Adi Kailash region. The Indian Air Force will also provide technical assistance in constructing this airstrip.
