Sanjauli’s Elevated Heliport Finally Cleared for Flights, Himachal Gets Ready to Take Off

After lying silent for nearly three years, Himachal Pradesh’s first elevated heliport at Sanjauli is finally set to buzz with activity. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has granted long-awaited clearance for flight operations, removing the biggest hurdle that had kept the facility grounded.

A Project Waiting to Fly

Built at a cost of over ₹18 crore during the Jai Ram Thakur-led government, the three-storey heliport was inaugurated in January 2022. Its purpose was clear: to serve as a lifeline during emergencies — from medical evacuations to rescue operations in remote areas. Yet, despite its modern design and prime location near Shimla, security concerns stalled its use until now.

What Makes It Special

Spread across ten bighas, the Sanjauli heliport is no ordinary landing pad. It boasts a VVIP lounge, ticket counters, passenger cabins, parking for 50 vehicles, helicopter decks, and safety nets. Built on an elevated concrete platform along the Sanjauli–Dhalli bypass road, it’s one of the few such structures in India — the first being in Rohini, Delhi.

Safety First

DGCA had earlier refused clearance, citing the need for qualified aviation officers and a proper security audit. The Tourism Department, which manages the heliport, sought help from Pawan Hans Ltd., whose experts inspected the site and gave the green signal. Tourism Director Vivek Bhatia confirmed: “DGCA officials have inspected the heliport and issued the license for flight operations.”

Why It Matters

For Himachal, where building large airports is difficult, heliports are the next best solution to improve connectivity. Once operational, helicopters from Pawan Hans or other companies will be able to fly from Sanjauli. The facility will support VVIP movement, medical emergencies, and tourist rescues. Its proximity to IGMC Hospital, Regional Cancer Centre, Women & Child Hospital, and Chamiana Super Specialty Centre makes it a crucial link for healthcare. Importantly, it will also be functional at night, expanding its utility.

Looking Ahead

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has already raised the need for more heliports across the state with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, pointing out that air connectivity is vital for a hill state with limited airport options. Other heliports are coming up in Baddi, Rampur, Palampur, and Mandi under the UDAN-II scheme.

For now, though, all eyes are on Sanjauli. After years of waiting, Himachal’s first elevated heliport is finally ready to lift off — promising faster rescues, smoother travel, and a new chapter in the state’s connectivity story.