Jharsuguda Takes Flight: Odisha and AAI Ink ₹2.1B Deal to Soar

The Odisha government has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Airports Authority of India (AAI) to develop a full-fledged airport at Jharsuguda in western Odisha, with an estimated investment of ₹2.1 billion.

At present, the Jharsuguda airstrip handles only limited chartered flights. The upgraded airport will greatly improve regional air connectivity across western Odisha. Under the agreement, the state government will contribute ₹750 million to the project and provide 296.5 acres of land—of which 118.7 acres will be handed over immediately—free of cost. AAI has committed to completing the construction within two years.

Once operational, the new Jharsuguda airport is expected to boost economic growth and ease congestion at the Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.