Foundation Laid for Palampur Heliport by Chief Minister Sukhu

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has laid the foundation stone for the Palampur Heliport, a project aimed at enhancing travel options in Himachal Pradesh. The heliport, expected to be completed by April next year, will facilitate affordable helicopter services to Chandigarh and Shimla. Additionally, plans for a Tourism Village in Palampur are underway, despite facing legal challenges. The Chief Minister also announced significant investments in healthcare facilities across the state, ensuring residents receive quality medical services. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to promote Kangra district as a key tourism hub.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 18, 2025, 18:32 IST

Inauguration of Palampur Heliport

Palampur News

During his visit to Palampur, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu officially laid the foundation stone for the Palampur Heliport, which is set to cost ₹19.77 crore. This project, envisioned by Gokul Butail, the Chief Minister's Principal Adviser on IT, Innovation, and Governance, will include a passenger terminal, a fire station, a utility building, and various amenities for travelers.

Speaking to attendees after the ceremony, the Chief Minister announced that the heliport is expected to be operational by April next year, enabling affordable helicopter services to Chandigarh and Shimla. He emphasized that the state government is actively working on multiple development initiatives for the Kangra district.

Plans for a Tourism Village

Tourism Development in Palampur

The Chief Minister also mentioned a proposal for establishing a Tourism Village in Palampur, which has faced legal challenges from individuals aligned with the BJP. He assured that efforts are being made to overcome these hurdles and reiterated the government's commitment to position Kangra district as the Tourism Capital of Himachal Pradesh, thereby creating new income opportunities for local residents.

Healthcare Improvements in the Region

Earlier in the day, he visited the Community Health Centre (CHC) in Gopalpur, where he engaged with both patients and medical staff.

The Chief Minister revealed that a budget of ₹3,000 crore has been allocated to enhance healthcare facilities across the state, from medical colleges to hospitals. He noted that new and advanced medical equipment is being installed to ensure residents receive high-quality healthcare services within Himachal Pradesh.

Future Projects and Commitments

MLA Ashish Butail welcomed the Chief Minister and mentioned that Sukhu would return soon to inaugurate projects worth approximately ₹300 crore. He also highlighted the Chief Minister's commitment to fund the construction of a new building at the CHC, which will include a digital X-ray facility and an ambulance.