Budget 2024 Updates: In her Union Budget 2024 speech, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has renewed the push for a new greenfield airport in Bihar, alongside plans for new medical colleges and sports infrastructure in the state. This move is expected to enhance Bihar's connectivity and infrastructure significantly.
Currently, Bihar operates three airports: Gaya, Patna, and Darbhanga. However, expanding these facilities has encountered persistent challenges, particularly concerning land availability.
For instance, the Airport Authority of India (AAI) has faced delays in acquiring land needed for the expansion of the Bihta civil enclave, a satellite town of Patna. Back in 2016, AAI estimated that 191.5 acres would be required for runway extension and an additional 8 acres for apron expansion. Unfortunately, this land has not yet been transferred by the state government.
Similarly, the Gaya Airport has been in need of expansion since 2017. AAI's request included 70 acres for runway extension, 30 acres for approach lights, and 100 acres for future expansion. Although the land requirement was later updated to 212.76 acres, only 23.84 acres have been allocated for immediate needs, with the rest still pending.
The proposed greenfield airport in Purnea also faces land issues. A feasibility study conducted in 2015 identified the need for 50 acres for a new civil enclave. Despite the state government's acquisition of 52 acres by June 2022, the land was deemed unsuitable for airport development. AAI is now seeking an additional 15 acres and assurances of a four-lane road to the site, but the state government has yet to respond.
The budget's focus on expanding Bihar's aviation infrastructure underscores the state's potential for growth. Addressing the land acquisition issues will be crucial for realizing these plans and improving connectivity and economic development in the region.
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