NE connectivity on MOT radar
To give inbound tourism a fillip, the Ministry of Tourism is upgrading connectivity to Northeastern states and plans the development of Guwahati as a heli hub.
In an attempt to tap the tourism potential of Northeast India, the Ministry of Tourism has identified connectivity as one of the chief shortcomings in the region. Plans to develop this aspect have already been taken into account and major funds to refurbish crucial airports have been authorised.
Dr. Mahesh Sharma, Minister of State for Culture and Tourism (Independent Charge) and Minister of State for Civil Aviation, says, “The Government is looking at improving connectivity in the Northeast region. For this purpose, funds of 1,200 crore have been sanctioned for the revamp of Guwahati airport. With the help of Pawan Hans services, Guwahati will also serve as a heli hub – these services have commenced more than two months ago.”
He further states that funds worth 484 crore for the upgrade of Agartala Airport and 90 crore for Tezu Airport in Arunachal Pradesh have been approved.
Furthermore, three additional projects are being worked on in Majuli and Kamakhya in Assam, and Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh. Funds to the tune of
250 crore have also been sanctioned for projects under the Swadesh Darshan (Northeast Circuit) and PRASAD scheme, he said.