Rajya Sabha MP Advocates for Enhanced International Connectivity from Chandigarh
In a significant move to bolster regional aviation and trade, Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament Satnam Singh Sandhu has formally appealed to the Union Government to designate Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport in Chandigarh as a "point of call". This designation is a critical prerequisite for enabling foreign airlines to operate direct international flights from the airport to key global destinations.
Demand for Direct Flights to Major Cities
During the Zero Hour session in the Upper House on Tuesday, Sandhu emphasized the urgent need to initiate direct flights from Chandigarh to London, Singapore, and Vancouver. He highlighted that this demand is widely supported by the populations of Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh, with approximately seven crore residents relying on Chandigarh as their primary aviation hub.
"Currently, direct flights are operational from Chandigarh airport to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, but there is substantial untapped potential," Sandhu stated. "The airport was constructed with an annual capacity of 60 lakh passengers and currently handles around 40 lakh, leaving room for an additional 20 lakh passengers. Introducing new international routes would significantly benefit the region."
Boosting Cargo Capacity for Export Growth
In addition to passenger flights, Sandhu called for an increase in cargo handling capacity at both Chandigarh and Amritsar international airports. He argued that enhanced cargo facilities are essential for boosting Punjab's exports, thereby stimulating economic growth and creating job opportunities in the state.
"Punjab has made strides in aviation infrastructure, but we must leverage this to strengthen our trade networks," Sandhu remarked. "By expanding cargo capabilities, we can facilitate smoother export processes and attract more business investments to the region."
Infrastructure Expansion and Regional Development
Sandhu also reflected on the broader context of India's aviation growth, noting that the number of airports nationwide has surged from 74 in 2014 to over 163 today. In Punjab specifically, he pointed to the presence of two international airports—Chandigarh and Amritsar—and four domestic airports at Adampur, Halwara, Bathinda, and Pathankot as evidence of inclusive development.
He cited recent milestones, such as the renaming of Adampur airport as Sri Guru Ravidas Ji Airport and the inauguration of Halwara airport, as examples of how infrastructure projects align with public sentiment and regional priorities. "These decisions demonstrate a commitment to honoring our cultural heritage while driving progress," Sandhu added.
Challenges and Future Prospects
Despite these advancements, Chandigarh International Airport faces limitations in international connectivity, currently offering flights only to Abu Dhabi and Dubai via IndiGo. Sandhu stressed that without point-of-call status, foreign airlines are restricted from operating services to and from the airport, hindering its potential as a global gateway.
"Punjab has received considerable support from the Union Government, but the people's aspirations call for more," Sandhu concluded. "We must increase international flights from Chandigarh, particularly to London, Singapore, and Vancouver, to meet growing demand and foster regional prosperity."
The airport, inaugurated in 2015 and renamed in 2022 to honor freedom fighter Shaheed Bhagat Singh, stands as a symbol of Punjab's evolving aviation landscape. Sandhu's proposals aim to transform it into a more dynamic hub, connecting the region to the world and driving economic vitality through improved travel and trade options.
