Srinagar, Jan 23: In a move to enhance connectivity in remote and snow-covered areas, the Jammu and Kashmir government is set to introduce helicopter services to areas including Gurez, Karnah, and Tangdhar who often remain isolated during winters due to heavy snowfall.
The trial run was conducted successfully by JetServe Aviation in the Bagtore area of Gurez Valley.The service aims to cater to villages such as Bagtore, Baduaab, Dawar, and Badugaam.Similar trials are planned for other snowbound areas, including Karnah and Tangdhar.
An official said that the helicopter services for Gurez, Tulail, and Bagtore are scheduled to commence from January 25.
Addressing concerns about the delay in initiating the services this year, the official said that the contract with the previous service provider had concluded. “We have now engaged a new company, Jet Serve Aviation, to operate these routes.”
The helicopter services are important during the winter months, as heavy snowfall often leads to the closure of key routes like Bandipora-Gurez, Kupwara-Tangdhar, and Karnah-Chowkibal roads, leaving these areas inaccessible.
The initiative will prioritize emergency evacuations, including patients needing immediate medical attention, movement of government employees, and transportation for students.
