Shimla. The Himachal Pradesh High Court, considering the lack of air services in the state a serious issue, has sought detailed responses from the state and central governments regarding the lack of regular flights from Shimla, Kullu, and Kangra airports. The court took this step in light of the fact that air travel in the state remains irregular, directly impacting the general public and the tourism industry.

A division bench of Chief Justice Gurmeet Singh Sandhawalia and Justice Zia Lal Bhardwaj, hearing the public interest litigation, ordered the Secretary of the Ministry of Civil Aviation to be named as a respondent. The court directed the state government to explain what efforts and requests have been made so far to ensure regular flights to the three airports—Shimla, Kullu, and Kangra.

Only the structure was found, but the lack of flights persists.

During the hearing, the court was told that the infrastructure is present in all three airports of Himachal, yet the number of flights is very limited.

• Shimla and Kullu usually have the same flight.

• Regular flight patterns are also not followed.

• Services are not stable at Kangra airport either.

Due to this, people of the state have to face difficulties in travelling, while it has a direct impact on important sectors like tourism.

Being a hilly state, air service is very important.

According to the court, considering the geographical conditions of Himachal, air service is not a luxury but a necessity.

• Air travel is considered a great relief due to road and weather challenges.

• Tourism industry is the main source of income for the state.

• Lack of flights may impact tourist interest

The court held that the irregularity of air travel in the current situation is against the interests of both the public and the state.

Responsibility assigned to governments

The court has asked both the state and the Centre:

• What proposals were sent for increasing flights?

• What steps has the Civil Aviation Ministry taken so far?

• What are the plans to improve the regularity and operations of airports?

The next hearing of the case will be held after the status report is received.