The Centre has proposed to develop 200 modern helipads under the next phase of the Regional Connectivity Scheme (UDAN) with an outlay of Rs 3,661 crore. The plan targets priority areas where air connectivity gaps remain significant, including Himachal Pradesh.
UDAN Scheme Expansion for Himachal Pradesh Connectivity
The government said the next phase of the UDAN scheme would focus on expanding heliport infrastructure, operationalising new helicopter routes and improving connectivity in remote and hilly regions. This will be done through continued financial support and coordination with state governments.
According to Parliament records, the next phase of the UDAN scheme envisages development of 200 modern helipads with a total outlay of Rs 3,661 crore in priority areas where air connectivity gaps remain.
Existing Helicopter Services in Himachal Pradesh
At present, helicopter services under UDAN have commenced from Rampur, Mandi, Reckong Peo and Shimla (Sanjauli) helipads in Himachal Pradesh. A total of eight helicopter routes have been operationalised under the scheme in the state.
According to The Hindu BusinessLine, two airports and nine helipads have been identified in Himachal Pradesh under the UDAN scheme, showing the state's importance in the regional connectivity push.
New Aviation Sites Under UDAN in Himachal
The government is eyeing a major connectivity push in Himachal with new aviation sites under UDAN. According to News On Projects, the plan includes 11 new aviation sites in the state, which would significantly expand the region's air connectivity network.
"Apart from airports, HMCA, Sh @JM_Scindia announced that 6 heliports would also be developed in Uttarakhand & Himachal Pradesh under #UDAN." — Ministry of Civil Aviation
Focus on Remote and Hilly Regions
The new phase of UDAN specifically targets remote and hilly regions where traditional airport infrastructure is difficult to build. Helipads offer a practical solution for these areas, requiring less land and lower construction costs compared to full airports.
The scheme's expansion aligns with the government's broader goal of making air travel accessible to smaller cities and remote regions. For Himachal Pradesh, with its challenging mountainous terrain, helipads serve as crucial infrastructure for both passenger movement and emergency services.
Our Take: A Step Toward Inclusive Air Travel
To put it plainly, this is a welcome move for Himachal Pradesh and similar hilly states. The focus on helipads makes practical sense — building full airports in mountainous terrain is expensive and often impractical. Helipads provide a cost-effective alternative that can still connect remote communities.
However, the success of this plan will depend on execution. Building the infrastructure is only half the battle; the government must also ensure that helicopter services remain affordable and reliable for local residents. The coordination with state governments mentioned in the plan is key — without local support and maintenance, these helipads could become white elephants.
For residents of remote Himalayan regions, this could mean better access to healthcare, education and economic opportunities. But the real test will be whether these services operate consistently and at prices that ordinary people can afford.