Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi on September 24 inaugurated the first airport in Sikkim at Pakyong. The first commercial flight from Pakyong is scheduled to start on October 4.
State Chief Minister Pawan Chamling and Union Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu were also present on the occasion, as the PM unveiled the plaque, formally inaugurating the first ever aerodrome facility.
Speaking at the occasion, PM Modi hailed all the engineers for their work in bringing about an engineering marvel. PM Modi also stated that India now has 100 functional airports, out of which 35 airports were built in the past four years.
PM added that the Sikkim airport will improve connectivity, benefiting the people of the state.
The prime minister arrived in Sikkim on September 23 evening on a two-day visit to the state.
Sikkim Chief Secretary A K Srivastava said that the airport is spread over 201 acres and is located on top of a hill about 2 km above Pakyong village at 4,500 feet above sea level.
PM Modi also said that work is progressing at a rapid pace to strengthen both, infrastructural and emotional connectivity to Sikkim and rest of the northeastern region.
The airport was constructed by the Airports Authority of India and at present, the nearest airport from Sikkim is located 124 km away in Bagdogra in West Bengal.
