The Centre has ruled out runway expansion at Shimla’s Jubbarhatti Airport and Kullu’s Bhuntar Airport, citing difficult terrain and land constraints in Himachal Pradesh.
Centre Says Runway Expansion in Himachal Airports Is Not Feasible
The central government has ruled out the possibility of extending the runways at Shimla’s Jubbarhatti Airport and Kullu’s Bhuntar Airport, citing the difficult topography and limited land availability in Himachal Pradesh.
The information was shared in the Rajya Sabha on Monday by Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol in response to queries regarding the development of airport infrastructure in the hill state.
According to the ministry, major expansion projects at the two airports face significant challenges because of the mountainous terrain and land constraints surrounding the facilities.
Terrain and Land Limitations Pose Major Hurdles
Himachal Pradesh’s rugged geography has long posed challenges to infrastructure development, particularly in the aviation sector. Airports in the state are located amid hills and valleys, leaving little room for large-scale expansion.
The Centre noted that the topographical conditions around Jubbarhatti Airport in Shimla and Bhuntar Airport in Kullu make runway extensions technically difficult and economically unviable.
Given the limited availability of flat land and the environmental sensitivities of the region, authorities have concluded that major runway expansion projects cannot be undertaken at the two airports.
Government Shares Details in Rajya Sabha
Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol informed the Upper House that the central government had assessed the feasibility of expanding airport infrastructure in Himachal Pradesh.
The minister highlighted that while improving connectivity remains a priority, geographical constraints significantly limit the scope for runway extensions in the state’s existing airports.
The statement comes amid growing demand for enhanced air connectivity to Himachal Pradesh, particularly during the tourism season, when destinations such as Shimla and Kullu witness a sharp rise in visitor numbers.
Air Connectivity Remains Crucial for Tourism
Shimla and Kullu are among Himachal Pradesh’s most popular tourist destinations, attracting thousands of visitors every year. Improved air connectivity has often been viewed as essential for boosting tourism and facilitating easier access to the hill state.
However, experts have repeatedly pointed out that the mountainous terrain presents unique engineering challenges that are not faced by airports in the plains.
Despite the constraints, the government continues to explore other avenues to strengthen regional connectivity, including improvements to road networks and the expansion of air services under various civil aviation initiatives.
Balancing Development and Geography
The Centre’s decision underscores the broader challenge of balancing infrastructure development with geographical realities in mountainous states. While demand for expanded airport facilities continues to grow, practical limitations related to terrain, safety and land acquisition remain significant obstacles.
For now, the government has made it clear that runway extensions at Shimla and Kullu airports are not feasible, shifting the focus toward alternative solutions to improve connectivity in Himachal Pradesh.
Key Takeaways
- The Centre has ruled out runway expansion at Shimla and Kullu airports.
- The decision was shared in the Rajya Sabha by Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol.
- Difficult terrain and land constraints were cited as the main reasons.
- Shimla’s Jubbarhatti Airport and Kullu’s Bhuntar Airport face geographical limitations.
- Authorities are exploring other ways to improve connectivity in Himachal Pradesh.
FAQs
Why has the Centre ruled out runway expansion at Shimla and Kullu airports?
The government cited challenging terrain and limited land availability as the primary reasons.
Which airports are affected by the decision?
The decision applies to Jubbarhatti Airport in Shimla and Bhuntar Airport in Kullu.
Who shared the information in Parliament?
Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol provided the details in the Rajya Sabha.
What alternatives are being considered to improve connectivity?
The government is focusing on strengthening road infrastructure and enhancing regional air connectivity through other initiatives.
