SRINAGAR, Oct 27: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday clarified that helicopter services operating in far-flung areas like Gurez are meant solely for local residents and not for tourists.
Responding to a query raised by MLA Nazir Ahmad Khan in the Legislative Assembly regarding the possibility of introducing helicopter services for tourists during winters in the border region of Gurez in north Kashmir’s Bandipora district, Omar Abdullah — who also holds the Tourism portfolio — said the service aims to facilitate residents who remain cut off due to harsh winter conditions.
“The helicopter services in Gurez are only meant for locals as the area remains cut off during winters. So far, the government has no plan to start helicopter services for tourists in far-flung areas, including Gurez,” the Chief Minister said.
However, he added that the government would welcome private players if they come forward to offer such services. “If any private player intends to start helicopter services for tourists in Gurez, we won’t create hurdles; instead, we will support them,” he said.
