Bhubaneswar, May 6: In a landmark decision, the Centre Government has granted in-principle approval for the establishment of a new greenfield airport in Puri.

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu Kinjarapu for their support in making this project a reality.

The proposed Shree Jagannath International Airport is expected to significantly enhance religious tourism, regional development, and connectivity in Odisha. The airport will provide direct access to Puri, home to the revered Jagannath Temple, which attracts millions of devotees and tourists annually.

According to reports, the Odisha government has been actively working on land acquisition for the project, covering 1,164 acres in Sipasarubali and Sandhapur villages under Brahmagiri tehsil. The estimated cost of the airport is ₹5,631 crore, and it will be developed in three phases to accommodate increasing passenger traffic.

The state government has emphasised that the airport will not only boost tourism but also strengthen industrial growth and infrastructure in Odisha. Additionally, plans are underway to establish another new airport in Paradip, further improving air connectivity in the region.

With the Centre’s approval, Odisha anticipates a surge in national and international tourists, leading to economic growth and employment opportunities. The Chief Minister expressed optimism that the airport will transform Odisha’s tourism sector, making it a global destination for spiritual and cultural experiences.

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