Kathmandu, October 15
Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Khadak Raj Paudel has directed the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) to initiate studies on the development and expansion of Tarigaun Airport in Dang and Rara Airport in Mugu.
Minister Paudel, who recently inspected both airports, held discussions with CAAN officials at the ministry today and directed them to proceed with the necessary studies.
According to CAAN, a team led by Minister Paudel, comprising CAAN officials and representatives from the civil aviation sector, inspected Nepalgunj, Dang, Rara and Jumla airports from October 7 to 12.
During the visits, the team directed officials to conduct detailed studies on infrastructure requirements, technical feasibility, operational capacity and measures to improve air services for the long-term development and expansion of the airports.
CAAN Director General Mukesh Dangol said the study on Tarigaun Airport aims to explore the potential for its development and expansion to make air transport more accessible, convenient and effective.
Similarly, Dangol said a feasibility study would be conducted to assess the possibility of upgrading and expanding the existing Rara Airport.
Minister Paudel also directed CAAN to conduct technical and feasibility studies on the possibility of constructing a new airport at an alternative location, if necessary.
Officials have also been instructed to prioritise technical studies, feasibility assessments, identification of infrastructure requirements and preparation of future action plans for the development of both airports.
The development and expansion of the airports are expected to improve air connectivity, promote tourism and contribute to the economic and social development of the respective regions.
