Gandhinagar: Gujarat govt has issued directions to ensure that helipads across the state remain in operational condition at all times, with mandatory inspections of every helipad at least once every three months. An official statement said on Thursday that the move is aimed at ensuring that helipads are immediately available without obstruction during disasters, medical emergencies, relief and rescue operations, as well as VIP movements, including visits by the PM and CM. Officials have also been instructed to keep a constant watch for encroachments and other obstructions around helipads.Unauthorised construction, storage of materials, parking of vehicles, garbage, overgrown vegetation and even non-functional vehicles seized by govt departments have been listed among the obstructions that must be removed immediately. According to a circular issued by the roads and buildings department, the executive engineer concerned will be responsible for ensuring that every helipad under his or her jurisdiction remains fully operational.The helipads will have to be inspected at least once every quarter, and any defect or requirement for repairs identified during the inspection will have to be addressed without delay. The department has also directed superintending engineers to regularly review the condition of all helipads within their jurisdictions so that maintenance issues do not remain unattended until an emergency arises.Govt has specified that regular maintenance will cover the helipad surface and pavement, painted markings, drainage facilities and approach areas, and allied infrastructure required for safe operations.
