By Ishfaq Gowher
Srinagar | A significant development has taken place in the long-pending Kishtwar airport proposal, with the central government dispatching a five-member high-level Special Team from the Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Airports Authority of India (AAI) for a detailed on-ground assessment. The team is expected to reach Kishtwar on Tuesday for a two-day visit to evaluate the feasibility and current status of the project under the Government of India’s UDAN scheme.
According to Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, who shared the update on social media, the purpose of the visit is to examine infrastructure requirements, geographical challenges, land suitability, and other key parameters necessary for establishing an airport in the mountainous district. Kishtwar—often referred to as the “Land of Sapphire and Saffron”—remains one of the remotest regions in Jammu and Kashmir, with difficult road connectivity and no existing air link.
The UDAN scheme aims to connect underserved and unserved airports across the country to ensure affordable regional air travel. If approved, the Kishtwar airport is expected to bring a major transformation to mobility, tourism, healthcare accessibility, and economic opportunities for local residents and businesses.
After concluding the survey and inspection, the expert team will return to Delhi and submit a comprehensive report to higher authorities. Based on their recommendations, the central government will chart the next course of action and define a roadmap for the implementation phase.
Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized that the initiative reflects Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s focus on improving connectivity in remote and far-flung regions. He said that proposals aimed at empowering border districts and hilly terrains have consistently received strong support from the Union Government.
The demand for an airport in Kishtwar has been raised for several years, especially considering the district’s strategic importance due to multiple ongoing hydroelectric power projects, including the Pakal Dul and Kiru dams. Improved air connectivity could also boost adventure tourism in destinations like Sinthan Top, Warwan Valley, and Paddar, known for their breathtaking landscapes.
Local residents and public representatives have welcomed the move, expressing hope that the inspection will finally pave the way for an airport that has remained a long-awaited dream. The outcome of the team’s assessment will be eagerly watched over the coming weeks, as the people of Kishtwar look forward to a new chapter in regional connectivity and development.
