Is MP Govt Really Planning to Establish Airports Every 150 km?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Madhya Pradesh plans to improve air connectivity significantly.
- One airport every 150 km and one airstrip every 75 km is the goal.
- Three new airports have recently been operationalized.
- Focus on enhancing tourism and local economies.
- Ambitious target to increase air traffic share.
Bhopal, Aug 19 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Mohan Yadav, announced on Tuesday that the state government is diligently working to enhance air connectivity to popular tourist spots in both rural and urban areas.
According to the Chief Minister, plans are underway to establish one airport every 150 kilometres and one airstrip every 75 kilometres throughout the state, effectively expanding the air network to encompass a broader spectrum of rural regions. “This initiative will link urban hubs with remote and rural areas,” said CM Yadav in a statement released on Tuesday. He also highlighted that three new airports—Rewa, Datia, and Satna—have become operational in the last year.
Furthermore, following the success of these three new airports, the state government is accelerating the development of the approved new airports in Shivpuri and Ujjain districts. Land acquisition for these new airports has commenced.
Currently, Madhya Pradesh has eight airports, six of which are operational, including Bhopal, Indore, Gwalior, Jabalpur, and Khajuraho. The government has introduced the New Civil Aviation Policy-2025 aimed at establishing Madhya Pradesh as a regional aviation hub, connecting every district with both national and international air traffic. Plans are underway to develop airports, airstrips, and helipads in all districts.
Special attention will be given to air cargo facilities to stimulate the state’s agricultural and industrial growth, contributing to swift socio-economic development. This initiative is designed to enhance tourism, trade, and emergency services. The creation of new airports and airstrips will not only improve connectivity but also create local employment opportunities and boost economic progress.
According to government reports, during the financial year 2023-24, nearly 5.5 million passengers utilized Madhya Pradesh’s airports, with projections estimating this number will rise to 7.5 million by March 31, 2025. Currently, the state’s share in India’s air traffic stands at 1.45 percent, with an ambitious target to increase it to 5 percent.