Air connectivity in Shimla to resume from tomorrow

SHIMLA: After nearly four years of suspension of air travel, Shimla will get back plane connectivity from tomorrow with the launch of a daily service by a private carrier.

"The IIC Technologies Ltd will commence its passenger service (Air Himalays) between Shimla, Kullu, Chandigarh and Dharamsala from June 9," a Himachal Pradesh government spokesperson said.

State Urban Development Minister Sudhir Sharma said the company will operate daily flights between Chandigarh and Kullu, Chandigarh and Shimla, Shimla and Gaggal, Gaggal and Shimla and Shimla and Chandigarh.

Air connectivity to Shimla was suspended after carriers claimed that the service was unviable.

Sharma, who will launch the service by flagging off a flight from Jubbar Hatti airport near Shimla, said the air connectivity will also help boost tourism.

Air service to the Himachal capital was suspended 44 months back. Airports Authority of India has spent over Rs 30 crore to maintain the airport in the interregnum.

Meanwhile, PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI National President Mahesh Gupta, who called on the Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh yesterday, said the body has been working closely with the state government to promote tourism, horticulture and help create an investor-friendly environment to boost economic growth.

He said he requested Singh to support Goods and Services Tax (GST).