Plan to build marketing complex around Gaggal Airport: DC

Dharamshala, February 17, 2025:  The expansion of Gaggal Airport in Kangra is set to bring significant infrastructural developments, including a proposed marketing complex to rehabilitate shopkeepers. Deputy Commissioner Hemraj Bairwa announced that land selection for this project has begun, ensuring minimal disruption to local businesses.

Chairing a meeting on Monday to review the airport expansion process, DC Bairwa also revealed plans to construct 12-meter-wide roads around the airport. Necessary guidelines have been issued to the SDM for implementation. Currently, aircraft operate on a 1,370-meter-long and 30-meter-wide runway, but an extension to 3,110 meters is in progress, with land acquisition efforts underway.

"The expansion process has gained momentum, and efforts are being made to minimize displacement. The interests of affected individuals will be safeguarded, and they will be given priority in rehabilitation," said DC Bairwa. He directed SDMs of Kangra and Shahpur to ensure timely compensation for eligible residents and focus on smooth rehabilitation efforts.

Additionally, the Block Development Officer has been instructed to document all panchayat properties falling within the airport expansion zone, along with canals and roads that may be affected.

Highlighting the benefits of the project, DC Bairwa stated that the expanded airport would be a major boost for Himachal Pradesh, enhancing tourism and generating new employment opportunities. "With a larger airport, cargo planes and bigger commercial aircraft will operate here, bringing large-scale employment projects to the region. The influx of tourists will multiply, significantly strengthening the local economy," he added.

Due to recent developments, Gaggal Airport has been upgraded from a fourth-category to a third-category airport. Starting March 30, flight operations will be conducted in two shifts from sunrise to sunset. Currently, flights operate to Delhi, Chandigarh, Shimla, and Kullu. From March 30, new routes to Dehradun, Noida, and Jaipur will be introduced, while flight frequency to Delhi and Chandigarh will also increase.