Pushkar Singh Dhami, Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, has sanctioned ₹5.39 crore for the construction of an Air Traffic Control (ATC) tower at the Doon Helidrome, reinforcing the state’s disaster preparedness and civic infrastructure capabilities.
The new ATC tower is expected to enhance operational efficiency, improve air traffic management, and strengthen coordination during emergency situations. Given Uttarakhand’s vulnerability to natural disasters such as floods, landslides, and earthquakes, a well-equipped helidrome plays a crucial role in rescue, evacuation, and relief operations.
Officials said the upgraded infrastructure will support faster deployment of helicopters for disaster response, medical emergencies, and connectivity to remote hill regions. Improved air traffic monitoring and communication systems are likely to ensure safer and more streamlined flight operations.
Beyond disaster management, the project is also expected to benefit civil aviation activities, including tourism, administrative travel, and emergency medical services. Strengthening air connectivity aligns with the state government’s broader focus on improving infrastructure in both urban and hilly regions.
Industry observers note that investment in aviation-linked civic infrastructure is vital for states with challenging terrain. The ₹5.39 crore ATC tower at Doon Helidrome marks a strategic step toward enhancing Uttarakhand’s emergency response framework and supporting sustainable regional development.
