Patna, 25 April 2025:
The Bihar government has approved a pre-feasibility study for building new airports in six towns across the state, aiming to boost air connectivity and regional development. The decision was made during a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Friday, according to officials.
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has been allocated ₹2.43 crore to conduct the study. The proposed airports are planned for Madhubani, Birpur (Supaul), Munger, Valmikinagar (West Champaran), Bhagalpur, and Saharsa. The study will assess key factors such as land availability, expected passenger numbers, runway requirements, and the types of aircraft that could operate at each site.
Additional Chief Secretary S Siddharth stated, “The decision will pave the way for the construction of airports in these six towns, which will not only ensure easy and smooth air travel for people of the state, especially locals, but will also boost the economy of the region”.
This initiative is part of the central government’s UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) regional connectivity scheme, which aims to make air travel more accessible in smaller cities and towns. The move is seen as a significant step towards improving infrastructure and supporting economic growth in under-served districts of Bihar.
Potential Biases
While the reporting is factual and based on official statements, the timing and emphasis on infrastructure development may reflect the government’s desire to project progress ahead of elections. Most sources present the news in a positive light, focusing on potential benefits and omitting possible challenges or dissenting views.
Gaps and Unanswered Questions
- Timeline: There is no clear indication of when the study will be completed or when construction might begin.
- Land Acquisition: Land availability is often a significant hurdle in infrastructure projects in Bihar, but specific challenges for these sites are not discussed.
- Environmental and Social Impact: The report does not address potential displacement, environmental concerns, or local opposition.
- Financial Viability: No details are provided on the projected costs of construction, funding sources beyond the study, or long-term sustainability.
Different Perspectives
- Optimistic View: The new airports could transform regional economies, improve mobility, and make Bihar more competitive nationally.
- Sceptical View: Without careful planning and demand assessment, some airports may struggle to attract enough passengers or flights, risking underutilisation and wasted investment.
- Local Concerns: Residents may worry about land acquisition, compensation, or changes to their communities.
Long-term Consequences and Societal Implications
- Economic Uplift: If successful, the airports could drive long-term growth, attract industries, and improve quality of life.
- Urbanisation: New airports often spur urban development, which can bring both opportunities and challenges (e.g., strain on local infrastructure).
- Regional Disparities: Focusing on underserved towns may help bridge regional divides within Bihar, but only if projects are executed efficiently and equitably.
Local Impact in Patna and Bihar
For Patna, the state capital, the expansion of air infrastructure in other towns could ease pressure on existing facilities and foster a more balanced development model. For Bihar as a whole, this initiative signals a commitment to modernisation and inclusion, though the real impact will depend on effective implementation and community engagement.
