JHARSUGUDA: The Indian government has allocated ₹2,100 crore for the enhancement and development of Veer Surendra Sai (VSS) Airport in Jharsuguda. This initiative includes plans to extend the runway, build a new terminal, and upgrade passenger facilities to bolster air connectivity in western Odisha.

These initiatives were reviewed during a recent meeting of the airport advisory committee. Pradip Purohit, the Bargarh MP and chairman of the committee, stated that the central government intends to transform VSS Airport into an international facility, which is why the funding of ₹2,100 crore has been approved. Approximately 350 acres of land will be requisitioned for the planned expansion.

“We have engaged in talks with relevant authorities regarding the airport’s development plans, which include the introduction of direct flights to Mumbai and Chennai, as well as an extra morning flight to New Delhi. These proposals will be submitted to the Civil Aviation Ministry for review. Additionally, we will approach the Culture department to ensure that the rich art and cultural heritage of western Odisha is represented at the airport,” he noted.

According to official sources, the process of acquiring 168.88 acres for the runway expansion is currently in progress, with the airport aiming for a 41.2 percent increase in passenger traffic. The planned infrastructure enhancements are expected to boost its capability to accommodate the rising number of passengers and air traffic.

Expanding flight connectivity is also a key focus, with plans for an additional morning flight between Jharsuguda and New Delhi, as well as direct routes to Chennai, Jaipur, and Visakhapatnam in the initial phase.