The Centre has approved a new subsidised helicopter route that will connect Jammu, Poonch, and Mendhar, including an option for a direct Jammu-Mendhar-Jammu route. This decision was based on a recent survey conducted by air operators, which revealed a substantial demand for these services. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) positively responded to a proposal from Mohammad Aijaz Asad, the Secretary of the Jammu and Kashmir Civil Aviation Department, to enhance connectivity for the remote area of Mendhar with Jammu, the winter capital.
Subsidised helicopter services are already thriving in various regions of the Union Territory, with established routes such as Kishtwar-Sounder-Navapachi-Ishan-Kishtwar, Jammu-Rajouri-Poonch-Jammu, Jammu-Doda-Kishtwar-Jammu, Bandipora-Kanzalwan-Dawar-Niri-Bandipora, and Kupwara-Machil-Tangdhar-Keran-Kupwara. These developments promote travel convenience and foster economic growth in these underserved areas.
An official communication from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) highlights the significance of expanding connectivity in the region: "The proposal of the Union Territory to operate the subsidised helicopter services on new route of Jammu-Poonch-Mendhar with additional option of Jammu-Mendhar-Jammu has been examined in consultation with IFD and this Department has no objection for aforesaid route.”
An official spokesperson emphasised that this initiative provides a valuable opportunity for the Union Territory to enhance transport options. This new service will significantly improve the lives of residents in an area that faces significant accessibility challenges, particularly during harsh winter months. Providing reliable transportation options will connect remote communities with urban centres, ensuring timely access to essential services and facilitating emergency evacuations when needed. The subsidized helicopter service demonstrates the government's strong commitment to enhancing infrastructure and promoting regional development in the remote regions of Jammu and Kashmir, ultimately fostering a brighter future for its residents.
This news comes on the heels of another recent development regarding travelling to the region. Indian Railways introduced its first Vande Bharat Sleeper train, connecting New Delhi to Srinagar. This semi-high-speed train will run on the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), offering passengers a remarkable journey filled with modern amenities and unparalleled comfort. The train, featuring modern amenities and increased travel comfort, will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the Republic Day celebrations on January 26, 2025.
