West Bengal will develop four new airports over the next two years following an agreement signed today between the Union Civil Aviation Ministry and the state government.
Union Minister K Rammohan Naidu confirmed the airports will be located at Charra in Purulia, Kalaikunda in Paschim Medinipur, Balurghat in Dakshin Dinajpur and Hasimara in Alipurduar.
The development forms part of the government’s regional connectivity UDAN scheme, with the Centre committing Rs 29,000 crore for West Bengal’s aviation sector over the next decade.
Speaking at the signing ceremony in Kolkata, Naidu urged the state government to frame a new civil aviation policy to attract private investors. He also stated the Centre wants Kolkata to have a second airport to meet growing demand for air connectivity in the region.
The Charra airport in Purulia holds historical significance, having been built by the British during World War Two for emergency landings. The 1,722-metre runway has remained largely unused for decades.
Balurghat airport is expected to strengthen connectivity between North and South Bengal, whilst a civil enclave at Hasimara will support tourism and connectivity in the Dooars region.
Under the tripartite agreement, the state government will provide land and develop basic infrastructure including electricity and water supplies.
The Airports Authority of India will oversee airport infrastructure development and manage flight operations once the facilities become operational within the 24-month timeframe.
