Patna. The state government has taken another step towards strengthening air connectivity in Bihar. Preparations are underway to build two new greenfield airports in Rajgir and Sasaram-Kaimur area. Before going ahead with both the projects, a feasibility study will be conducted by the Airports Authority of India (AAI).
There will be an agreement between the government and AAI
An agreement is going to be signed between the state government and the Airport Authority of India for both the proposed airports. The state government has approved the draft of the agreement. After this, the AAI team will inspect the proposed sites and it will be seen how technically and practically suitable it is to build an airport there.
Land selection process continues
According to the Civil Aviation Department, the process of marking land for both the airports is underway. After the land is decided, detailed information about the concerned sites will be given to the Airport Authority. This will include information like land map, Khasra number, area, length and breadth and geographical location of the site.
Apart from this, weather data of last ten years, wind direction, height of land and map of Survey of India will also be studied. An assessment will also be made as to which categories of aircraft will be possible to operate from the proposed airport.
The project will move forward after the report
Airports Authority of India will prepare a pre-feasibility report based on all technical and geographical information. According to the agreement, the study of both the proposed sites will be done without any fees in the current financial year. If the study report is favorable then the next process of airport construction can begin.
The construction of airport in Rajgir is expected to give a special boost to the tourism sector. At the same time, business, employment and economic activities in the surrounding districts can also get a new impetus. With the construction of two new airports, people of these areas of Bihar are expected to reduce their dependence on other cities for long distance travel and the air connectivity of the state will also be strengthened.