By Our Correspondent
NEW DELHI/BHUBANESWAR: BJD MP Dr. Sasmit Patra’s various demands before Honble Union Civil Aviation Minister, Govt of India for developments of Airports/Airstrips at Puri, Jharsuguda, Bhubaneswar, Rourkela, Rangeilunda, Jeypore, Utkela, and Baripada.
International Airport in Puri: The proposed International Airport must be fast-tracked with direct international connectivity to Southeast Asia and the Middle East to boost tourism and trade. The delay in land acquisition and environmental clearances must be resolved on priority.
Expansion of Jharsuguda Airport: Jharsuguda Airport, under the UDAN scheme, has demonstrated significant growth. It must be upgraded with night landing facilities, cargo terminals, and additional runways to facilitate greater regional and international connectivity.
Direct International Connectivity from Bhubaneswar: Bhubaneswar’s Biju Patnaik International Airport is currently underutilized in terms of direct international flights. We demand immediate inclusion of more direct flights to major global hubs such as Dubai, Singapore, and Bangkok, along with enhanced bilateral air service agreements.
Strengthening Rourkela Airport: Given its role in Odisha’s industrial economy, Rourkela Airport must be brought under AAI’s expansion plans to support the steel and manufacturing sector with cargo and commercial aviation facilities.
Development of Rangeilunda Airport: The long-pending development of Rangeilunda Airport in southern Odisha must be prioritized, as it holds strategic importance for connecting the underdeveloped regions of Ganjam and southern Odisha to the national aviation network. Necessary funds and regulatory clearances must be expedited to operationalize this airport under UDAN.
Revival and Development of Airstrips in Odisha: Several existing airstrips in Odisha, including those in Jeypore, Utkela, and Baripada, must be upgraded and operationalized under the UDAN regional connectivity scheme. These airstrips can be crucial in enhancing intra-state connectivity and providing better access to remote and tribal regions. A special package must be allocated to integrate these airstrips into the national aviation network.
Coastal Surveillance and Emergency Response Aviation Support: Given Odisha’s vulnerability to cyclones and natural disasters, dedicated aviation-based disaster response and coastal surveillance units must be established in Bhubaneswar and Paradip. A dedicated squadron of disaster-response helicopters and drones must be stationed in Odisha to ensure rapid deployment during emergencies.
