Odisha's Ambitious Aviation Plans: What’s Next for Air Connectivity?

Strengthening Odisha's Aviation Infrastructure

On Thursday, Odisha's Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi convened a significant meeting at Lok Seva Bhawan in Bhubaneswar to assess the state's aviation and network infrastructure. The primary aim was to enhance air connectivity and upgrade existing facilities.

During the discussions, plans for a new greenfield airport in Paradip were highlighted, alongside the expansion of the Shri Jagannath International Airport (SJIA) in Puri and improvements to Rourkela Airport.

To enhance regional air travel, the meeting also addressed the development of airstrips in various locations, including Jaipur, Dandbose, Rangeilunda, Gotma, Satibhata, Raisuan, Tusura, Jamadarpali, Malkangiri, and Amarda Road.

Additionally, the Chief Minister reviewed initiatives for establishing heliports across 15 districts and advancing the Biju Patnaik Aviation Centre (BPAC) at the Birasal airstrip in Dhenkanal. The Public Works Department has been appointed as the lead agency to expedite these developments.

Majhi stressed the importance of creating top-tier aviation infrastructure, which encompasses airports, helipads, and drone hubs, while advocating for the modernization of state-operated airports.

The meeting saw participation from high-ranking state officials, including Commerce and Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena, Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, and Principal Secretaries from various essential departments.