Country’s first heliport in the offing

Work to build the country's first-ever heliport in the city's Ashkona has already started with an aim to oversee the operations of helicopters, Mohibul Haque, senior secretary to the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism, said yesterday.

"Discussions are now ongoing about the operations of helicopters," he told The Daily Star after a virtual discussion on tourism and the economy. The event was organised by Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation, the ministry and travel magazine -- Bhraman.

Talking to this correspondent after the meeting over phone, the senior secretary said once the terminal is operational, they will be able to coordinate better regarding who is traveling in the choppers, where they are traveling from and their destination.

Besides, the heliport will ease the process of transporting ailing passengers since there will be a dedicated terminal, he also said.

Speaking at the discussion as chief guest, Mohibul said, "As per the instructions of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, we have started building the heliport."

The country's private helicopter service activities at present are dominated by few large business groups. Around 14 to 15 companies are now operating helicopter business, Mohibul informed.

He also said work is underway to formulate a policy for the development of tourism in the country. This policy will specify the responsibilities of each ministry involved in tourism so that they can play a role in the development process.

He said joint initiative of all government and non-government organisations is necessary in this regard.

Mohibul said work is underway to include the issue of assisting tourists in the day-to-day work of the deputy commissioners. He said a proposal has already been sent to the Cabinet Division in this regard.