The Uttarakhand Air Connectivity Scheme has reached a new milestone as Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami virtually inaugurated three critical air routes, furthering the state's efforts to improve connectivity in its remote regions. Under this scheme, helicopter services from Dehradun’s Sahastradhara Helipad to Uttarkashi’s Joshiyada and Chamoli’s Gauchar, along with a direct fixed-wing air service between Delhi and Pithoragarh, have been introduced to make travel across the state faster and more accessible.
Expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu, Chief Minister Dhami emphasized that the Uttarakhand Air Connectivity Scheme represents a significant step forward for the state’s tourism, economic growth, and disaster management capabilities, especially in areas that are difficult to reach by road. Under the national UDAN scheme, 18 heliports are being developed across Uttarakhand, with air services already operational at 10 heliports.
New Air Services Launched Under Uttarakhand Air Connectivity Scheme
The new air routes under the Uttarakhand Air Connectivity Scheme aim to reduce travel time dramatically, benefiting both tourists and locals. For instance, travel from Dehradun to Joshiyada will now take only 40 minutes, while Dehradun to Gauchar will take just 50 minutes. This reduction in travel time is expected to drive more visitors to the mountainous areas, fostering economic development and providing more convenient options for residents and tourists alike.
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Schedule and Fare Details for Uttarakhand Air Connectivity Scheme Services
Sahastradhara-Gauchar Helicopter Service
- Departure: Sahastradhara to Gauchar at 9:30 AM
- Return: Gauchar to Sahastradhara at 10:40 AM
- Operating Days: Monday to Saturday
- Fare: ₹3,000 per person until November 20, 2024; ₹3,600 thereafter.
Sahastradhara-Joshiyada Helicopter Service
- Departure: Sahastradhara to Joshiyada at 12:00 PM
- Return: Joshiyada to Sahastradhara at 1:00 PM
- Operating Days: Monday to Saturday
- Fare: ₹3,000 per person until November 20, 2024; ₹3,300 thereafter.
Booking Link for Helicopter Services: Pawan Hans Booking
Delhi-Nainisaini (Pithoragarh) Fixed-Wing Air Service
This service will connect Delhi directly with Pithoragarh, offering passengers the chance to fly over the scenic Himalayas in just 1 hour and 25 minutes.
- Schedule:
- Departure from Delhi: 9:20 AM
- Return from Pithoragarh: 11:15 AM
- Operating Days: Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday
- Fare: ₹2,499 per person until November 14, 2024; ₹6,999 to ₹7,447 thereafter.
Booking Link for Fixed-Wing Services: Alliance Air Booking
Importance of Uttarakhand Air Connectivity Scheme for Regional Development
The Uttarakhand Air Connectivity Scheme brings the state's remote areas closer to major cities, providing crucial benefits to local residents and travelers. By reducing travel time, the scheme supports tourism, boosts local businesses, and creates employment opportunities, particularly in the hospitality sector. Moreover, it strengthens Uttarakhand’s infrastructure, offering new opportunities in sectors like homestays, adventure tourism, and local businesses.
This scheme also aligns with Uttarakhand’s goals for sustainable development, giving both locals and tourists improved access to remote destinations. As a result, the Uttarakhand Air Connectivity Scheme is set to play a key role in shaping the state's economic and social future, helping build a stronger, more connected Uttarakhand.
This Whole article is originally written by Deepak Bisht on wegarhwali.com. With his permission, It is translated into English. if you find some errors. Please correct us. :)