PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Pithoragarh
The Naini Saini Airport in Pithoragarh, deemed strategically significant due to its proximity to the international borders with China and Nepal, is set for another expansion- the fourth- since its inception. The runway will be extended by 600 meters, increasing its total length to 2,168 meters, and it will allow 72-seater aircraft to operate from the airport.
Following a memorandum of understanding (MoU)- signed between the Airport Authority of India (AAI) and the Uttarakhand Government in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Dehradun-full operational responsibility for the airport will now be transferred from the district administration to AAI.
At present, the runway length is 1,568 meters with a width ranging between 30 to 40 meters. “This will help a 42-seater aircraft operate from the airport and direct flights to major cities, including Delhi, are expected to commence soon,” sources said.
Alongside the runway extension, construction of a new passenger terminal, technical block and fire section has been proposed, too, and for this, around 50 hectares of additional land will be required for the project.
“With an expected increase in tourist inflow, sectors such as education, healthcare and commerce are also likely to see rapid growth. The AAI will now handle all upcoming planning and expansion work, following the official transfer of the airport from the district administration,” said the airport manager and chief development officer, Pithoragarh, Deepak Saini.
Notably, the foundation of the Naini Saini airstrip had been laid in 1991 and after 33 years of waiting, regular flight operations had begun in February 2024. Presently, air services are available for Delhi and Dehradun along with helicopter services to Munsyari and Haldwani.
Once connected with major Indian cities, the expansion is expected to significantly promote tourism and local trade. The improved connectivity will make travel easier for pilgrims visiting Adi Kailash, Om Parvat and also those embarking on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
