Civil Aviation Minister Paudel instructs CAAN to begin studies on Tarigaun, Rara airports

KATHMANDU: Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Khadak Raj Paudel has instructed the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) to begin studies into developing and expanding Tarigaun Airport in Dang and Rara Airport in Mugu.  

The Civil Aviation Minister gave the instruction after on-site inspections of both airfields.

Minister Paudel met CAAN officials at the ministry today to issue detailed instructions on the study procedures to be carried out.  
CAAN said a joint delegation led by Minister Paudel — including CAAN office-bearers and aviation sector representatives — inspected Nepalgunj, Dang, Rara and Jumla airports from October 7 to October 12.

Officials were instructed to carry out detailed evaluations of infrastructure needs, technical feasibility, operational capacity and the measures required to ensure effective air services for the long-term growth of the facilities.  

CAAN Director‑General Mukesh Dangol said the feasibility study for Tarigaun Airport aims to make local air services more accessible, convenient and effective, and that a parallel study will focus on upgrading and expanding Rara Airport, which is currently operational.

Minister Paudel also instructed CAAN to assess the technical and feasibility aspects of constructing a new airport at an alternative location.  

Directives were issued to proceed with technical studies, feasibility analyses, identification of infrastructure requirements and the formulation of a prioritised action plan for the two airport projects.

The planned development and expansion of these aviation facilities are expected to make a positive contribution to the economic and social development of the respective regions.

By RSS