Odisha Plans Greenfield Airport in Paradip and Heliports in 14 Districts for Enhanced Connectivity
In a major step to improve Odisha’s aviation infrastructure and connectivity, the state government has unveiled plans to build a Greenfield airport in Paradip, speed up the development of the Shree Jagannath International Airport (SJIA) in Puri, and construct heliports across 14 districts. These decisions were finalized during a high-level meeting on aviation and network management, which was chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Thursday.
During the meeting, key initiatives to enhance regional and international connectivity were discussed. A significant development was the approval for a Greenfield airport in Paradip, a key port town with great economic potential. This new airport is expected to greatly improve the region’s logistics and provide essential air links to an area with significant industrial activity. Additionally, the meeting reviewed progress on the long-anticipated Shree Jagannath International Airport in Puri, with the Chief Minister stressing its importance for tourism and overall economic growth in the state. There was also a strong focus on upgrading the Rourkela Airport, which will further expand Odisha’s growing aviation network.
The meeting also highlighted a series of regional airport upgrades, aiming to improve air travel for people in smaller towns and rural areas. Development plans for airports in Jeypore, Dand Bose, Rangeilunda, Gautama, Satibhata, Raisuan, Tushara, Jamadarpali, Malkangiri, Amarda Road, and Utkela were reviewed. These projects are part of a broader effort to connect residents in remote areas to larger cities, improving accessibility and fostering economic activity.
In line with improving connectivity, the state government has also proposed building heliports in 14 districts, further improving transportation options for remote areas. Plans are also in place to upgrade the Biju Patnaik Aviation Centre (BPAC) at the airstrip in Birashol, Dhenkanal, which will position Odisha as an attractive hub for both commercial and private aviation.
Chief Minister Majhi has instructed relevant authorities to expedite these projects, ensuring that the necessary aviation infrastructure is completed swiftly. He urged officials to focus on enhancing the quality of public airports, increasing flight connectivity, and improving the efficiency of aviation operations across the state.
Through these initiatives, the Odisha government aims to establish a comprehensive and efficient aviation network that serves both domestic and international travelers. The improvements will not only boost the state’s transportation sector but also stimulate economic growth, tourism, and regional development.
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