In response to a demand for extending subsidised helicopter services to remote areas along the Sino-India border, Ladakh’s Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra has assured that a solution will be found.
The Chenab Times has learned that the appeal to expand the air connectivity, particularly to the Nyoma and Durbuk sub-divisions in the Changthang region of eastern Ladakh, was made by former executive councillor of the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC), Leh, Konchok Stanzin.
Demand for Air Connectivity to LAC Regions
Konchok Stanzin, through a post on the social media platform X, urged the Ladakh administration, including Lieutenant Governor V.K. Saxena and Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra, to include Nyoma and Durbuk in the subsidised helicopter service. He emphasized the right of residents in these strategically important areas to equal access to such facilities.
The request highlighted the necessity of air connectivity for residents in these high-altitude regions, which are situated along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China. Road travel to these areas can become significantly challenging and often impossible during the harsh winter months, underscoring the importance of reliable air transport.
Ladakh Administration’s Commitment to Connectivity
Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra responded positively to Stanzin’s appeal, stating, “Ok we will find a solution.” This assurance signals the administration’s intent to address the connectivity needs of these remote border areas.
The Ladakh administration had previously restarted its subsidised helicopter service on September 30, with the primary objective of enhancing connectivity between Leh and various remote destinations across the Union Territory. This service is particularly crucial for providing an alternative mode of transportation during the severe winter conditions.
The operation of the helicopter service is managed by Pawan Hans Limited, operating under a lease agreement that receives support from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs. This collaboration aims to ensure the sustainability and accessibility of the service.
Current Helicopter Service Network
Currently, the subsidised helicopter service connects Leh to seven established destinations. These include Kargil, Padum, Lingshed, Dibling, Nyerak, Diskit, and Turtuk. The service plays a vital role in facilitating travel for both residents and tourists, while also being critical for the timely evacuation and medical support during emergencies.
The inclusion of Nyoma and Durbuk in this network would significantly benefit the populations residing in these areas, enhancing their access to essential services and improving their overall quality of life, especially during periods when ground transportation is severely hampered.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
