Heliport project in limbo, locals upset

The state government’s ambitious plan to establish a heliport at Aloo Ground near the Green Tax barrier in Manali remains stalled. Proposed in December 2022 to enhance tourism and connectivity, the project aimed to set up heliports in every district, with a central hub in Chandigarh for heli-taxi operations. However, despite initial approvals, the project has made no headway.

Initially, a 15-bigha site was identified at Pirdi, just 6 km from the Kullu-Manali Airport in Bhuntar. However, due to plans for a ropeway from Pirdi to Bijli Mahadev and the proximity to the airport, the site was deemed unsuitable. In March 2023, a new 12-bigha site at Aloo Ground in Manali was earmarked by the tourism department. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) conducted a preliminary investigation and approved the site. However, the project faced bureaucratic hurdles as the tourism department’s request for FCA (Forest Conservation Act) clearance has yet to be completed.

According to the Forest Department, the FCA case for the Manali heliport was removed from the portal, leaving the project off the department’s official list. As a result, neither the necessary formalities were completed, nor the FCA clearance obtained, effectively leaving the project in limbo. To make matters worse, the site suffered significant damage during the July 2023 floods. The area is now vulnerable and would require extensive protective measures before construction can proceed.

The delay has disappointed locals and stakeholders, as Manali attracts millions of tourists annually, with numbers steadily increasing. The heliport would have significantly boosted tourism by facilitating heli-taxi operations, allowing travellers to reach Manali quickly from Chandigarh and other parts of the state. Additionally, it would have promoted circuit tourism, encouraging visitors to explore more of the region.