Author: Bihar Say | Amrita |

A Skyline for Bhagalpur: A New Era Begins

Imagine flying directly into Bhagalpur from other Indian cities — soon, that vision becomes real. The Bihar cabinet has approved ₹472 crore for a Greenfield Airport in Sultanganj, Bhagalpur, in a move that promises to reshape eastern Bihar’s connectivity and growth trajectory.

Why the Greenfield Airport Matters

First, the project directly addresses the air connectivity gap in eastern Bihar. Until now, travelers from Bhagalpur often relied on distant airports like Patna, Gaya, Darbhanga, or Purnia. With this new airport, travel becomes faster, smoother, and more accessible.

Second, the airport will unlock tourism potential. Bhagalpur, known for silk, ancient history, and riverfront heritage, could attract more domestic and international tourists. Consequently, local businesses — hotels, handicraft sellers, restaurants — stand to gain.

Third, economic development and employment will receive a boost. Construction will create jobs, and after launch, allied sectors (logistics, retail, transport) will expand. Over time, the airport could help build Bhagalpur into a regional hub.

Moreover, building on about 931 acres, the project aims to reduce pressure on Bihar’s existing airports and decongest them. By distributing air traffic more evenly, the state can serve more districts effectively.

Parallel Moves: Expanding Saharsa, Feasibility in Motihari & Chhapra

Alongside Bhagalpur, the cabinet approved ₹147.76 crore for land acquisition to expand Saharsa airport’s runway. Additionally, ₹5.8+ crore will fund feasibility studies for airports at Motihari, Chhapra, and Bhagalpur under the Airports Authority of India (AAI).

By doing so, Bihar signals a broader push: not just one airport, but a network to uplift regional air infrastructure and serve more districts.

Aviation Education & Aerosports: Beyond Runways

Interestingly, the cabinet also signed an MoU with the Aero Club of India to introduce aviation training and aerosports in Bihar. This includes setting up training institutes, leasing training aircraft, and developing related infrastructure.

Thus, the state is not only focusing on connectivity but also skill development and youth empowerment in aviation. Over time, Bihar might emerge as a hub for aviation education and aerosports in eastern India.

Governance, Welfare & Bigger Picture

During the same cabinet meeting, the government approved 129 proposals — for example, a 3% dearness allowance raise for government employees, higher honorariums for ANM workers, and a doubling of scholarships. Yet, the Bhagalpur airport project stands out as a cornerstone infrastructure decision, reflecting Bihar’s ambition to modernize and democratize development.

Key Takeaways (in shorter bullets)

• The ₹472 crore budget was approved to build a Greenfield Airport at Sultanganj, Bhagalpur.

• It will sit on ~931 acres to enhance air connectivity, reduce load on current airports, and encourage regional growth.

• Simultaneous funding was approved for Saharsa expansion and feasibility studies in Motihari and Chhapra.

• MoU with Aero Club of India will support aviation training and aerosports in Bihar.

• Many welfare, education, and salary-related proposals also got approval — but the airport draws widespread attention.

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