Residents Celebrate Approval of Helicopter Service Connecting Jammu and Mendhar

Jammu, Dec 17 (NationPress) Just a day after the Union Ministry of Home Affairs greenlit a new subsidised helicopter route connecting Jammu, Poonch, and Mendhar, the residents of the Mendhar sector expressed their excitement on Tuesday over this groundbreaking initiative.

This new service is poised to be a transformative solution, particularly for those living in the remote border regions who have faced challenges in accessing essential resources.

The initiative was advocated by Mohammad Aijaz Asad, Secretary of the Civil Aviation Department for the Union Territory, who sought the necessary approvals from the Ministry of Home Affairs to launch the Jammu-Mendhar route.

The approval came after an extensive survey that evaluated the local needs and the anticipated passenger numbers, ensuring the service would effectively meet its objectives.

The Civil Aviation Department has stated that they will increase the frequency of the helicopter service based on passenger demand.

Additionally, the government is looking to extend similar services to other remote areas, aiming to improve connectivity and convenience for more isolated communities.

This announcement has been met with considerable joy and relief by the Mendhar populace.

Residents are optimistic that the service will be particularly beneficial during emergencies, providing swift access to medical facilities for urgent care and serving as a vital link during accidents or natural disasters.

Locals have conveyed their sincere appreciation to the government and the Civil Aviation Department for this essential initiative. They believe that this service will not only bridge the gap between border areas and mainstream access but also address longstanding issues, fostering development and enhancing their living standards.

Speaking to IANS on Tuesday, Iqbal, a resident of Mendhar, shared his happiness: "Living in the Mendhar border area, today is a momentous day for all of us. The central government has approved a subsidised helicopter service that will significantly aid emergency situations, especially during heavy snowfall when illness strikes. The roads are in poor shape, but with this service, we can reach the hospital. This will profoundly benefit the community, and I extend my gratitude to the government for making it happen."

Another resident remarked, "This initiative by the government is commendable, especially for the people of Mendhar. I also wish to thank Aijaz Asad for his support. We previously encountered severe challenges due to the absence of a helicopter service, resulting in many lost lives. Now, this new service will undoubtedly save many lives."

With this approval, the region is now set to experience improved and more dependable transportation, enhancing life for its residents and unlocking new opportunities for border tourism and economic advancement.

According to Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Imran Rashid, "The endorsement of this subsidised helicopter service from Jammu to Mendhar marks a significant milestone for the local community. The challenges of living in a border area have been numerous, but this service will deliver much-needed relief and enhanced convenience. All necessary formalities have been completed, and the service is poised to bring substantial advantages to the region."

Importantly, subsidised helicopter services are already operational in various areas of the Union Territory, including Kishtwar-Sounder-Navapachi-Ishan-Kishtwar, Jammu-Rajouri-Poonch-Jammu, Jammu-Doda-Kishtwar-Jammu, Bandipora-Kanzalwan-Dawar-Niri-Bandipora, and Kupwara-Machil-Tangdhar-Keran-Kupwara.