New Delhi: In a significant move to enhance regional connectivity in Bihar, the Civil Aviation Ministry has proposed the development of airports in 10 cities under the UDAN 5.2 scheme. The announcement was made in response to an unstarred question raised by Rajya Sabha member Dr. Bhim Singh.
The proposed cities include Veerpur, Maharama, Bhagalpur, Munger, Muzaffarpur, Valmikinagar, Motihari, Raxaul, Madhubani, and Chhapra. Bids have been received for these locations to operate small aircraft with less than 20 seats.
According to Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol, the Bihar government has been requested to confirm land availability for these projects. The government has also been urged to ensure the sites are free from encumbrances and provide necessary facilities, including security, fire services, meteorological services, and operational management.
A comprehensive blueprint has been prepared to develop these airports, which includes the construction of passenger terminal buildings and other key facilities. The Joint Secretary of the Civil Aviation Ministry has communicated with the Chief Secretary of Bihar, seeking an updated report on land availability. The aim is to make these airports ready for small aircraft operations in the TwoB and ThreeC categories.
Earlier, a letter was sent to the Bihar government, emphasizing the need for land that is free from all forms of liabilities to enable seamless development and operation.
Currently, Bihar has three operational airports:
- Gaya Airport: Located near the UNESCO World Heritage site of Bodh Gaya.
- Jayaprakash Narayan International Airport (Patna): A major domestic airport serving the state capital.
- Darbhanga Airport: Operational since November 8, 2020, under the UDAN scheme, this airport caters to the Mithila region and has been pivotal in improving connectivity.
The new proposal under the UDAN 5.2 scheme is expected to significantly boost regional connectivity in Bihar, promoting economic growth and ease of travel for residents. Once operational, the new airports will bridge connectivity gaps in underserved regions of the state.
