The Indian Air Force (IAF) will start operating AN-32 courier service to Kargil from the first week of December this year. It will remain operational as per the requirements of Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC), Kargil, during the winter season, after the closure of the Srinagar-Kargil-Leh National Highway.
The decision was taken in a meeting chaired by advisor to the chief minister Qamar Ali Akhoon, following the request made by the LAHDC to start IAF sorties.
The meeting decided that the AN-32 courier service would operate as per past practice from Srinagar to Kargil and back, thrice a week on every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. It would also operate from Jammu to Kargil and back once a week on every Tuesday.
It was also decided that the government would also take up the matter of the operation of an additional sortie from Jammu to Kargil for the convenience of the people stranded due to the closure of Zojila Pass following heavy snowfall in the area.
The advisor instructed the deputy commissioners of Kargil, Srinagar and Jammu to nominate liaison officers in their respective districts, who can be contacted easily by people for booking of tickets and other related matters.
The meeting was informed that the routine facilities during stay at Srinagar, Jammu and Kargil including arrangements for additional security personnel, transportation and medical aid, would be provided by the local administration.
{{/usCountry}}The meeting was informed that the routine facilities during stay at Srinagar, Jammu and Kargil including arrangements for additional security personnel, transportation and medical aid, would be provided by the local administration.
{{/usCountry}}Akhoon stressed upon the authorities concerned to maintain close coordination for smooth operation of the much needed service to the border district during the harsh winter season.