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A pivotal development is unfolding in the coastal city of Puri as the Sri Jagannath International Airport begins to take shape, heralding a new era of connectivity and cultural exchange. A government official has recently shed light on the progress of the land acquisition process, essential for the airport's establishment, indicating that it is well on course for completion in the upcoming six months. This international aviation hub is set to sprawl over a vast 1,164 acres and involves an investment of about Rs 5,631 crore, marking a significant economic milestone for the region.
Acquisition of Private Land and Public Involvement
The meticulous land acquisition effort includes 68 acres of forest terrain and 221.48 acres of private property within the Sipasarubali and Sandhapur areas, under Brahmagiri tehsil. Currently, over 961 acres have been acquired, with continuous efforts to secure the remaining private land. The official overseeing the process assured, "We will complete the land acquisition in the next 6 months." The private land in question encompasses 153.37 acres in Sipasarubali and 68.11 acres in Sandhapur. Moreover, thoughtful plans for the rehabilitation and resettlement of the affected locals are concurrently being shaped.
Anticipating Clearances and Ensuring Compliance
The airport's journey from proposal to reality has been marked by a series of bureaucratic milestones, including a public hearing for the acquisition of private land and the completion of an obstacle limitation surfaces (OLS) survey. The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) granted site clearance approval last year, adhering to the Greenfield Airports (GFA) Policy of 2008. This crucial step came after fulfilling all necessary conditions and submissions to the ministry. With a few more clearances awaited, the construction is poised to begin, as per the official in charge.
Connecting Puri to the World
The proposed Puri International Airport in Odisha is a beacon of the region's aspirations, set to serve the Puri region and its historical heritage. As of now, the nearest airport is Biju Patnaik Airport in Bhubaneswar, located approximately 64.6 kilometers from the sacred city of Jagannath Puri. In 2021, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik passionately appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to establish this airport as a tribute to Jagannath culture, underscoring its potential to boost regional tourism and the economy. Since then, the Chief Minister has been a constant advocate for the project, emphasizing its importance to PM Modi.
The establishment of the Sri Jagannath International Airport is more than just the construction of another airport; it's an initiative that promises to enhance the socio-economic landscape of Puri and Odisha at large. With the land acquisition process nearing its culmination and the project aligning with rigorous policies, the airport is steadily becoming a reality. Once operational, it will not only facilitate easier access for pilgrims and tourists to the revered Jagannath Temple but also act as a catalyst for promoting the rich heritage of the region on an international platform.
