In a significant development, the long-awaited demand for initiating air services in Bhagalpur district is poised to be fulfilled. The construction of an airport on a sprawling 475-acre land has received assurance from the Bihar Legislative Assembly, as confirmed by a government minister. Nishith Varma, Director (Operations) at the Directorate of Civil Aviation, Ministry of Civil Aviation, has directed the District Magistrate to identify and report on the earmarked 475-acre land. The completion of the airport is expected to not only trigger air services but also propel the overall development of Bhagalpur and surrounding districts.
Initiative at the District Administration Level
The demand for an airport in Bhagalpur was raised by MLA Pawan Kumar Yadav. In response to this, the government provided assurance for the construction of the airport, with a non-governmental resolution issued on March 31, 2023. Following these governmental initiatives, Nishith Varma, Director at the Directorate of Civil Aviation, instructed the District Magistrate on February 5, 2024, to send a report after identifying the designated 475-acre land. This information has also been communicated to the Deputy Secretary of the Bihar Legislative Assembly. Simultaneously, the district administration has initiated the process of land identification.
Potential Location in Goradih or Kahalgaon
The land for the airport can potentially be designated in Goradih. Approximately 450 acres of land in Mohanpur and Amanat Sarkar Mouzas are under consideration. Of this, Mohanpur Mouza comprises 333.06 acres, while Amanat Sarkar Mouza has 208 acres and 15 decimals of land. Despite officials visiting the site in March 2022 for various development plans, a final decision on the land’s suitability is pending. Additionally, land acquisition for an industrial area was initiated in Kahalgaon years ago, but no progress has been made.
Benefits of Initiating Air Services
The commencement of air services is expected to bring about several advantages:
1. Economic Boost: Bhagalpur is globally renowned for its silk industry, and air services are likely to provide substantial support to this sector.
2. Improved Healthcare:The absence of air services has posed challenges for major medical consultations. With the introduction of air services, the opening of prominent hospitals in the region is anticipated.
3. Business Opportunities: The business community, particularly those connected to various metropolitan cities or other states, is expected to benefit significantly from improved connectivity.
4. Reduced Travel Hassles: Currently, the nearest airports are located in Bagdogra, Deoghar, and Patna. The introduction of air services will alleviate travel difficulties for the local population.
Bhagalpur district, globally renowned for its silk industry, is expected to experience a transformative boost with the initiation of air services, marking a significant milestone in the region’s development.
