Rio flags off Helicopter service in Nagaland

Kohima, Dec 1 (UNI) Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio today inaugurated the inter-state Helicopter service at the Assam Rifles helipad.

Inaugurating the Pawan Hans service, Rio said the new air service was a milestone in the history of Nagaland and would help state to develop faster in the transport sector.

He said helicopter service was introduced in Nagaland in 1987, but following a helicopter crash in 1989, the service was discontinued and it resumed today.

The state government wanted to purchase its own helicopters, but due to paucity of fund the dream could not be fulfilled, he said adding the Government will explore the vast mineral deposits of the state and with the earning will purchase more helicopters.

State Transport and Communication Secretary Imkonglemba said initially the helicopter service would be introduced five days a week, except Wednesday and Sunday, from Kohima to Dimapur, Mokokchung, Tuensang, Mon, Wokha, Zunheboto and Phek, subject to the availability of passengers.

UNI