- विज्ञापन -
New Delhi: Minister of State in the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Gen. (Dr) V. K. Singh (Retd), in a written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha provided overview of the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) – Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik (UDAN) in India.
Objectives of the Centre-run Regional Connectivity Scheme include stimulating regional air connectivity at affordable rates for the masses. It aims to provide connectivity to unserved and underserved airports through the revival of existing airstrips and airports. It also Promotes balanced regional growth and make flying affordable for the public. The scheme is in operation for a period of ten years.
RCS-UDAN is a market-driven scheme, with airlines submitting proposals based on their assessment of demand. Financial incentives and concessions are provided by the Central and State Governments and airport operators to selected airline operators. Viability Gap Funding (VGF) is provided as financial support to selected airline operators.
Minister said that so far Rs. 4500 Crores allocated for airport development, with Rs. 3751 Crores utilized. VGF amounting to Rs. 3020 Crores disbursed to selected airline operators. Also, 517 RCS routes have commenced operations, connecting 76 airports, including 9 Heliports & 2 Water Aerodromes.
Talking about the number of beneficiaries, More than 130 lakh people have availed benefits of the scheme so far.
In the future, the Government aims to operationalize 1000 UDAN routes and revive/develop 100 unserved & underserved airports/heliports/water aerodromes by 2024. Rs. 1000 Crore allocated under Phase II for the development and operationalization of 50 new airports/heliports/water aerodromes.
Talking about the specifics of Tamil Nadu, Minister said Out of Rs. 97.88 Crores sanctioned for airport development in Tamil Nadu, Rs. 94.51 Crores has been incurred.
