Odisha’s government sets an ambitious target: developing 15 fully operational airports by 2047 to boost connectivity and trade
According to an officer on December 7, the Odisha government has set a lofty goal to establish at least 15 fully functional airports by 2047, the year India would commemorate its 100th anniversary of independence.
At the 4th Meeting of the High Power Committee on Aviation, which was chaired by Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja on December 6, the programmes implemented to reach the goal were discussed, according to the officer.
With an emphasis on developing Odisha’s aviation ecosystem in accordance with the Vision of Vikshit Odisha 2036–47, the committee examined the new prospects in the aviation industry and talked about ways to improve connectivity, expedite infrastructure development, and establish a supportive legislative framework. In 2036, Odisha will have been in existence for 100 years.
Twelve of the 19 airports or airstrips in Odisha are owned by the state. However, he stated that just five civilian airports, Bhubaneswar, Jharsuguda, Jeypore, Utkela, and Rourkel, are currently in use.
With connections to Bangkok, Singapore, and Dubai, Bhubaneswar is now the state’s sole international airport. In order to construct a second international airport in Puri with dedicated areas for aviation, logistics, etc., the state is conducting the required actions.
He noted that the construction of airports and airstrips, including the planned greenfield international airport at Puri, was thoroughly studied.
According to officials, the government anticipates earning Rs 5,000 crore a year from aviation-related services by 2047.
In order to create a robust talent pool for the aviation sector, the meeting emphasised the necessity of a specific strategy to support the creation of Flight Training Organisations (FTOs) in Odisha.
The Dhenkanal aviation center’s operationalisation was also examined, with a focus on transforming it into a major centre for capacity building and flying training.
In order to simplify regulatory procedures, draw in private capital, and promote consistent expansion throughout the industry, the state also intends to create a complete state aviation strategy.
In order to bolster Odisha’s aviation value chain and attract new companies, the Committee also thought about designating aircraft manufacturing and MRO (Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul) facilities as a thrust sector under the Industrial Policy Resolution.
In order to establish Odisha as a premier aviation centre in eastern India and open up new opportunities for travel, commerce, and investment, the chief secretary requested that appropriate interdepartmental cooperation, prompt project execution, and proactive planning be maintained.
SOURCE – BUSINESS STANDARD
