Diplomat Correspondent
Srinagar,(DD): The Jammu and Kashmir government is gearing up to launch helicopter services to provide vital connectivity to remote and snowbound areas like Gurez, Karnah, and Tangdhar.
This initiative aims to ensure access during harsh winters when heavy snowfall cuts off these regions from the rest of the state.
A trial run was successfully conducted today in the Bagtore area of Gurez by a private aviation company, Jet Serve Aviation, signaling the start of a new era in emergency and essential services. Villages including Bagtore, Baduaab, Dawar, and Badugaam are set to benefit from the planned aerial connectivity, which will also extend to other snowbound areas after further trials in Karnah and Tangdhar.
According to officials, the service will primarily cater to emergency evacuations for patients, transportation of government employees, and the movement of students. The initiative has been introduced to evaluate the feasibility of such services during emergencies and to address the challenges posed by blocked routes.
Key roads like Bandipora-Gurez, Kupwara-Tangdhar, and Karnah-Chowkibal remain inaccessible due to heavy snowfall, leaving these regions isolated. The helicopter service promises to act as a lifeline, especially during critical situations.
The government’s move reflects its commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by residents in these remote border areas, ensuring their safety and connectivity throughout the winter months.(DD)
