LG inaugurates project to boost civil aviation infra at Leh IAF station

New Delhi: To boost tourism and economic activity in the Union territory of Ladakh, Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta, accompanied by senior IAF officials, on Thursday inaugurated a project aimed at developing civil aviation infrastructure at the IAF station in Leh.

The inauguration marks a significant milestone in strengthening the civil aviation infrastructure in Ladakh. The infrastructure has been upgraded in record time despite extremely challenging high-altitude terrain and adverse weather conditions.

Air Marshal J S Mann, senior air staff officer of Western Air Command, was among the IAF officials who attended the programme.

The upgraded infrastructure will enable smoother ground movement of aircraft and facilitate quicker civil departures. These will enhance passenger convenience and reduce turnaround time, a defence ministry statement said.

“Improved air connectivity will provide a strong impetus to tourism in the Leh sector, generating economic opportunities and supporting local livelihoods. At the same time, the enhanced facilities will ensure more reliable air services for residents and visitors alike, while also strengthening the region's ability to respond swiftly to Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) requirements," the statement said.

The defence ministry said the project will contribute meaningfully to Ladakh's long-term socio-economic growth.

Earlier, LG Gupta had warned that “white-collar militancy” continues to pose a threat to India's internal security, even as the country has made major strides in controlling extremism. His remarks came after a blast occurred near the Red Fort Metro station in Delhi, triggering a multi-agency crackdown.

Cautioning against hostile forces, the LG said, “India's development and a positive environment are things that our neighbouring countries do not want to see. It is possible that they may continue trying to create disturbances. However, our agencies are strong, our people are resilient and our police are capable.”