Advisor to the Lieutenant Governor of UT Ladakh, Dr. Pawan Kotwal chaired a high-level meeting to review and address critical aspects of air connectivity and airport infrastructure in Ladakh, focusing on ensuring smooth and efficient operations during the winter months.

The Advisor underscored the significance of air connectivity as a lifeline for Ladakh during winters when road access is severely restricted. Discussions covered the operation of AN-32 courier services for the Kargil-Srinagar-Jammu sector, the deployment of AN-32 and IL-76 flights from Thoise and Leh to Chandigarh, and the implementation of the UDAAN Scheme at Kargil and Thoise airports.

During the meeting, he also reviewed the status of Kargil Airport and the progress of the new terminal at Leh Airport. Dr. Kotwal directed that priority be given to passenger movement, ensuring that 70% of the air cargo capacity is allocated for passengers and the remaining 30% for essential cargo. To address challenges faced by residents in securing tickets, particularly during emergencies, he instructed officials to reserve a quota of seats for genuine and urgent passengers. This measure aims to assist those encountering difficulties with online ticket bookings or requiring immediate travel.

Additionally, the Advisor directed the advocacy and promotion of regular services under the UDAAN Scheme using 19-seater aircraft to enhance connectivity. He emphasized the need for regular and reliable services under this scheme, which can play a pivotal role in addressing Ladakh's connectivity challenges and benefiting residents.

The Advisor also stressed the importance of implementing a transparent and efficient ticket allocation mechanism to ensure fairness and accessibility for all passengers. He urged officials to streamline operations, address logistical challenges, and enhance the efficiency of winter air services.

Regarding infrastructure, he called for expediting the development of Kargil Airport to make it operational for commercial flights and ensuring timely progress in the construction of the new terminal at Leh Airport to meet the region's growing demands.

The meeting was attended by Commissioner/ Secretary, Civil Aviation Department, Dr Franklin; Chairman/ Chief Executive Councilor, LAHDC, Leh; Dy Chairman LAHDC Leh, Tsering Angchuk;  Executive Councilor Kargil Kacho Feroz khan ; ADC Leh, ADC Kargil; Air Officer Commanding (AOC), Airforce Station, Leh; Air Officer Commanding (AOC), Airforce Station, Thoise; Sr. Superintendent of Police, Leh; Sr. Superintendent of Police, Kargil. (Through V.C); Airport Director, (AAI), Leh; GM Project, Airport Leh and other concerned officials. The officials stationed outside joined the meeting virtually.