CM seeks nod to use SASE helipad for tourism

Shimla, November 8

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur today met Union Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in New Delhi today and urged for according permission to use the Snow and Avalanche Study Establishment (SASE) helipad at Manali for tourism purpose.

He said Himachal witnessed heavy tourist influx, especially Manali and surrounding areas, and to boost tourism, this would help and improve the connectivity.

He apprised her that roads in Kinnaur and Lahaul Spiti being maintained by the BRO were not in good condition. These were the only access roads to hydel projects being constructed on the Sutlej and Chenab and required immediate attention.

Thakur also requested her for renaming Rohtang tunnel after the name of the late Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who had a special attachment for the people of the state. He said the tunnel was a gift to the people as the project came up during his tenure only.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman agreed in principle for according permission to use the helipad for tourism purposes and also directed the officers concerned to issue directions to the BRO for upkeep of roads.— TNS