BuzzBytes
UDHAMPUR, June 12: Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh on Friday announced that the long-awaited Civil Airport at Udhampur is expected to become operational in the coming months, marking a significant boost to regional connectivity and economic development in Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking during a public outreach programme in Udhampur, Dr Singh said the tender for construction of the airport terminal was floated nearly three weeks ago and the work order is likely to be issued after completion of the required formalities.
“The airport is initially planned to facilitate ATR aircraft operations, which will significantly improve regional air connectivity and provide a major boost to tourism, trade, investment and employment generation,” he said.
The Union Minister revealed that discussions are also underway with the Jammu and Kashmir Government for the transfer of additional land to expand the project into a larger airport facility on the lines of Jammu Airport.
Highlighting the development trajectory of Jammu and Kashmir over the past 12 years, Dr Jitendra Singh said the region has witnessed unprecedented growth under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
He said Udhampur has emerged as one of the major beneficiaries of infrastructure expansion, improved connectivity, welfare schemes and economic empowerment initiatives.
Referring to flagship programmes, the Minister said the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana revolutionized financial inclusion by bringing millions of previously unbanked citizens into the formal banking system and enabling direct benefit transfers.
He also highlighted the impact of the Swachh Bharat Mission and the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, saying both initiatives significantly improved sanitation standards and the quality of life of rural households.
Dr Singh described the Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee Tunnel on the Chenani-Nashri stretch as one of the most transformative infrastructure projects in Jammu and Kashmir.
He informed that approval has now been granted for construction of an additional twin-tube tunnel parallel to the existing structure to further enhance traffic management, safety and highway capacity.
The Minister also highlighted the completion of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link project, including the iconic Chenab Rail Bridge, and the introduction of Vande Bharat train services connecting Jammu and Kashmir with the rest of the country.
He said projects such as the Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway and widening of key road corridors are expected to accelerate economic growth and improve logistics across the region.
Highlighting local success stories, Dr Singh said Udhampur’s traditional dairy product Kaladi has received Geographical Indication (GI) status, helping local producers access larger markets while preserving its unique identity.
He also pointed to the establishment of the Biotech Industrial Park at Ghati in Kathua, saying it has positioned Jammu and Kashmir as an emerging hub for biotechnology, innovation and entrepreneurship.
The Minister further referred to the success of the Lavender Mission, digital connectivity expansion, educational and healthcare infrastructure improvements, and focused development of tourism destinations such as Mantalai.
Calling upon the youth to actively participate in nation-building, Dr Jitendra Singh said the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047 is built on the strong developmental foundation created over the last decade.
He said the combination of modern infrastructure, improved connectivity, welfare programmes, scientific innovation and economic opportunities is transforming Jammu and Kashmir and opening new avenues for growth and prosperity.
A large number of citizens, public representatives and local dignitaries attended the programme.
Udhampur Civil Airport to Become Operational Soon, Says Dr Jitendra Singh
