Patna: Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary on Tuesday urged the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation to accelerate the expansion and capacity enhancement of Patna airport's runway, pledging complete support from the state government for the project.
High-Level Meeting on Aviation Growth
Chairing a high-level meeting at Lok Sevak Awas alongside senior officials from the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation and Bihar's civil aviation department, Choudhary emphasized that the aviation sector in the state is experiencing rapid growth and must be strengthened with a long-term vision. He stated that Bihar aims to increase air connectivity tenfold over the next five years, calling it a key priority for the government.
District-Wise Roadmap for Connectivity
The Chief Minister announced that the government is preparing a district-wise roadmap to enhance air connectivity across the state. He directed the civil aviation department to expedite a comprehensive plan focused on airport modernisation, stronger security systems, and inclusive infrastructure development. According to him, Bihar has the potential to emerge as a regional aviation hub for eastern India and should be developed with that goal in mind.
Emphasizing the importance of Patna airport, Choudhary said that work on runway expansion and capacity enhancement should be undertaken without delay. He reiterated that the Bihar government would provide full cooperation to the Centre in advancing the project.
Focus on Darbhanga Airport and International Status
He also highlighted the significance of Darbhanga airport, noting that once it receives international airport status, the state will witness a rise in international passenger traffic and broader aviation opportunities. He said Bihar should be developed into a leading civil aviation centre offering safe, seamless, and sustainable connectivity.
Choudhary noted that stronger air connectivity would have a direct impact on tourism, trade, and overall economic activity in the state. He added that improved aviation infrastructure would also create new employment opportunities and support regional development.
Presentation and Proposals Reviewed
During the meeting, Bihar Civil Aviation Department Secretary Nilesh Ramchandra Devre made a detailed presentation on ongoing discussions with the Union ministry. The presentation covered airport and airstrip development, modernisation plans, expansion of air connectivity, strengthening of security infrastructure, and implementation of the UDAN scheme.
Union Civil Aviation Secretary Sameer Kumar Sinha shared suggestions on Patna airport's runway expansion and capacity enhancement. The meeting also reviewed several major proposals, including granting international status to Darbhanga airport, the Ajgaibinath Dham greenfield airport project, construction of a permanent civil enclave at Purnia airport, development of airports at Muzaffarpur, Valmiki Nagar, Saharsa, and Birpur, prioritising Bihar under the revised UDAN scheme, adding more airports under UDAN, upgrading Forbesganj airport, and improving state airstrips in line with technical standards.
