In a significant step towards improving regional connectivity, a high-level team from the Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Airports Authority of India (AAI) will visit Kishtwar on October 28 to evaluate the feasibility of a proposed airport under the Centre’s UDAN scheme.

Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh hailed the move as a “landmark moment” in fulfilling Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision to connect remote and hilly regions of Jammu and Kashmir through affordable air travel.

“The government is committed to ensuring that no part of the country remains cut off from development. Kishtwar, with its growing potential in hydropower and tourism, deserves modern air connectivity — and the process has now formally begun,” Dr Singh said in an official statement.

According to officials from the Ministry of Civil Aviation, a five-member expert team will conduct a two-day field study beginning Monday. The team will assess terrain challenges, technical feasibility, and infrastructure requirements before submitting a detailed report to the ministry in New Delhi.

An AAI official said the proposed site near the Chaugan ground in Kishtwar is under serious consideration. “The aim is to establish a small but fully equipped airstrip capable of handling regional flights throughout the year. This will bring Kishtwar closer to Jammu, Srinagar, and other key destinations,” the official stated.

The project has been included in the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) scheme, which promotes affordable regional air connectivity across India.

“The inclusion of Kishtwar in the UDAN network reflects the government’s commitment to balanced development,” Dr Singh said. “Once operational, this airport will not only benefit tourists and traders but also provide essential emergency and administrative access to the district.”

Officials added that the project complements Kishtwar’s emergence as North India’s power hub, fuelled by major hydroelectric projects such as Pakal Dul, Kiru, and Ratle.

The proposal for a Kishtwar airport was first submitted by Dr Singh in January 2018. The upcoming feasibility study marks a major step forward after several years of procedural delays.

A senior Jammu and Kashmir government official noted, “The AAI team’s visit underscores the project’s seriousness. The airport will be a game-changer for the Chenab Valley, spurring economic growth, tourism, and social mobility.”

The assessment report is expected within a month, after which the Ministry of Civil Aviation will decide on the project’s technical and financial viability.

If approved, the Kishtwar airport will become the first airstrip in the Chenab Valley, ushering in a new era of connectivity and development for the region.