Patna: Bihar is set to develop heliports in 13 aspirational districts under the Centre’s Regional Connectivity Scheme, Modified UDAN, potentially opening the way for helicopter services in smaller cities and districts. The proposed facilities are also expected to support emergency relief and rescue operations and tourism-related activities.
The state cabinet has approved the draft agreement for implementing the initiative. The agreement will be signed between the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Airports Authority of India (AAI) and the Bihar government, under which the responsibilities of the Centre and the state will be defined for projects related to regional air connectivity.
The initiative is aimed at expanding aviation infrastructure beyond the state’s existing major airports and improving access to areas that currently have limited air connectivity.
13 Districts Identified For Heliports
The districts currently identified for the proposed heliport development are Araria, Aurangabad, Banka, Begusarai, Gaya, Jamui, Katihar, Khagaria, Muzaffarpur, Nawada, Purnia, Sitamarhi and Sheikhpura.
The state government will also have the option to propose new air routes under the scheme. Proposals for developing different airports and related aviation facilities will be invited and projects will be selected according to the prescribed process.
The heliports could provide an additional aviation option for residents of these districts and improve connections with larger cities and existing airports, depending on the routes approved and services subsequently introduced.
Modified UDAN To Support New Routes
Under the Modified UDAN scheme, financial assistance can be provided for routes where passenger numbers are expected to remain low during the initial phase of operations. Such support is intended to make it easier for airlines to launch and continue services on routes that may not immediately generate sufficient passenger demand.
The state government will submit proposals for routes and infrastructure under the scheme. The final implementation will depend on the selection of routes, development of heliport facilities and completion of the required approvals and agreements.
Emergency Services Also In Focus
Apart from passenger connectivity, the proposed heliports could be used during emergencies, including relief and rescue operations. The availability of suitable landing facilities in more districts could provide authorities with an additional option for responding to emergencies and transporting essential assistance.
The infrastructure could also support tourism by improving access to destinations located away from major aviation hubs. Better connectivity may make travel easier for visitors as well as residents travelling for business or other purposes.
Potential Impact On Smaller Cities
The expansion of heliports and regional air routes is expected to strengthen air connectivity in Bihar’s smaller cities and aspirational districts. The government also expects the initiative to support tourism, business activity and employment opportunities linked to aviation and related sectors.
However, the development of heliports does not by itself confirm the immediate start of regular helicopter services. Operations will depend on the completion of the required infrastructure, route selection, agreements, approvals and participation of service operators.
With the Modified UDAN framework, Bihar is seeking to extend aviation connectivity to more districts while using existing government support mechanisms to make regional routes viable during their initial stages.
