Spotlight on Gaggal: Expansion Amid Legislative Drama

A minor dispute arose in the Himachal Pradesh Assembly during a discussion about Gaggal Airport's expansion in Kangra. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and Opposition Leader Jai Ram Thakur debated procedures and loan inquiries. Plans for the airport's expansion include extending its length and considering a public-private partnership for construction.

The Himachal Pradesh Assembly saw tensions on Thursday as the ruling party and opposition clashed over the Gaggal Airport expansion issue. A procedural disagreement during Question Hour erupted when the Speaker disallowed a supplementary question from the opposition leader.

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu addressed the assembly, stating the government's commitment to acquiring the necessary land by year-end. The government has paid Rs 1,960 crore to affected families and plans to extend the airport to 3,110 meters, potentially in partnership with the private sector.

Amidst the legislative back-and-forth, Opposition Leader Jai Ram Thakur raised concerns about an "off-the-budget" loan, seeking clarity on its terms. However, the focus remained on the expansion, with assurances of fair compensation to legitimate land claimants.

(With inputs from agencies.)