The Central Government has given a significant boost to regional air travel in Telangana by awarding the state a total of 30 air routes under the ambitious Ude Desh Ka Aam Naagrik (UDAN) or Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS). This move is set to transform accessibility, particularly for smaller cities.
Operational Success: Connecting Hyderabad to New Destinations
Out of the 30 routes allocated, an impressive 29 are currently operational. This high operational rate underscores the scheme's successful implementation in the region. The primary hub for these new connections is Hyderabad, which now enjoys enhanced air links to several important tier-II and tier-III destinations.
According to the Airports Authority of India (AAI), flights from Hyderabad now connect to cities like Puducherry, Hubli, Kolhapur, Nashik, Belgaum, Gwalior, Mysore, and Salem. This network is crucial for fostering economic growth, tourism, and convenient travel for the common citizen, which is the core mission of the UDAN scheme.
National UDAN Landscape: A Pan-India Connectivity Push
The progress in Telangana is part of a much larger national effort. At the all-India level, authorities have awarded a substantial 923 valid RCS routes. So far, 651 of these routes have been successfully operationalized.
This expansive network now connects 93 airports, including two water aerodromes and 15 heliports. The flights operate using a diverse range of aircraft to suit different route demands, including:
- Fixed-wing aircraft with seating capacities from 9 to 78 passengers.
- Helicopters, especially for priority or difficult-to-access routes.
Ensuring Accountability in the Scheme
The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) has also highlighted the mechanisms in place to ensure airlines deliver on their commitments. The government maintains strict oversight to prevent delays and non-compliance.
Airline operators chosen under UDAN who fail to start services within the set timeline are issued show-cause notices. In cases of deliberate default, the consequences are severe: the routes are cancelled, and the operator's performance guarantee or proposal security is forfeited. This policy ensures that the scheme's benefits reach the public without unnecessary delays.
In conclusion, the activation of 29 UDAN routes from Telangana, primarily Hyderabad, marks a major step in democratizing air travel. It brings smaller cities onto the aviation map, promotes regional development, and aligns with the national goal of making flying accessible and affordable for a larger segment of India's population.
