The Odisha government has embarked on a significant plan to transform Jeypore Airport into a round-the-clock aviation hub capable of handling larger aircraft. This strategic move aims to dramatically enhance regional connectivity and spur economic growth in southern Odisha.
Government's Vision for Enhanced Air Connectivity
Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari, speaking in Jeypore on Saturday, affirmed the state's commitment to this expansion. He stated the government is determined to see the airport grow, with more aircraft and passenger traffic. A crucial step has already been taken, with the Revenue Department agreeing to provide the necessary land for the project free of cost.
"We want to see the Jeypore airport grow bigger, with more aircraft flying from here and more people travelling through this region," Minister Pujari said. He added that while the state is creating the required infrastructure, they are also in constant dialogue with the Ministry of Civil Aviation to facilitate operations of larger aircraft from Jeypore.
Details of the Major Infrastructure Upgrade
Currently operating under the UDAN scheme since October 31, 2022, Jeypore Airport handles limited daily connectivity with nine-seater planes to Bhubaneswar and Visakhapatnam. The approved upgrade will change this landscape entirely.
The airport's status is set to be elevated from Category 2B to 3C. This transformation will enable it to handle 72-seater aircraft and operate 24 hours a day, free from runway visual-range limitations. The expansion requires over 200 acres of land, including approximately 50 acres of government land.
The project received a major boost when the Airports Authority of India (AAI) submitted a positive feasibility survey report in August 2024. A key component of the upgrade is the extension of the existing 1,200-metre runway to 2,700 metres, accompanied by enhanced security infrastructure to meet higher operational standards.
Economic Impact and Regional Development
Koraput Collector Manoj Satyawan Mahajan highlighted the project's transformative potential. He emphasized that improved air connectivity will accelerate economic activity, boost tourism, and establish Jeypore as a key travel hub within the state, creating a multiplier effect for the entire region.
In a related development for regional administration, Minister Pujari also inaugurated the newly constructed Revenue Inspector Training Institute (RITI) on Jeypore's outskirts. Built at a cost of Rs 2 crore, this facility will train up to 100 personnel per batch.
It is designed specifically for newly recruited and untrained revenue inspectors (RIs) and assistant revenue inspectors (ARIs) from five districts: Koraput, Malkangiri, Rayagada, Nabarangpur, and Kalahandi. This institute eliminates the need for officials to travel to Khallikote in Ganjam district for training, strengthening grassroots administration in southern Odisha.
