The Himachal Pradesh government has sanctioned financial assistance of Rs 16.8 crore for 113 families operating shops and other businesses on government land that are affected by the expansion of Gaggal airport in Kangra district. Deputy Chief Whip Kewal Singh Pathania announced that the assistance has been approved on humanitarian grounds for families whose livelihoods would be impacted by the project.
Compensation and Support Details
Pathania stated that compensation had already been paid to landowners whose land was acquired for the airport expansion. The latest decision extends financial support to shopkeepers and other business operators who were not landowners but depended on the area for their livelihood. He described the move as a rare initiative linked to a land acquisition project, under which business operators on government land are also being provided financial assistance.
Benefits of Airport Expansion
Pathania emphasized that the expansion of Gaggal airport would boost tourism, improve connectivity, and generate employment and self-employment opportunities in Kangra district. The project is expected to bring significant economic growth to the region.
