Bettiah: The long-pending expansion of Valmiki Nagar airport in Bihar has moved a step closer to reality, with the state administration initiating the acquisition of 12 acres of additional land for the project. Authorities have identified the required land and begun the formal transfer process to enable the Airports Authority of India (AAI) to carry out development work.
The Bagaha-II circle administration confirmed that the proposal for land allocation was submitted following a request from the AAI. Circle officer Mohammad Wasim Akram said the land has been earmarked and administrative procedures for the handover are nearing completion. Once transferred, the site will be used for runway extension and other infrastructure upgrades.
On Tuesday, AAI official R.K. Parashar visited the site to conduct a ground inspection of the acquired area. Officials said the District Magistrate will formally transfer the land to the Authority, clearing the way for construction to begin. The visit marked an important step in assessing readiness for the next phase of development.
Technical evaluations are also underway, with soil testing teams collecting samples to determine the suitability of the terrain for construction. The assessments will guide engineering decisions for runway strengthening and expansion. Officials said further action will follow once all reports and clearances are finalised.
The airport had earlier been surveyed by an AAI team, which recommended extending the runway and upgrading facilities to handle increased traffic. The Authority also highlighted the need to widen the access road to improve connectivity for passengers. With land acquisition now in progress, the project is expected to enhance regional air links and support economic growth in the Valmiki Nagar region.
