West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has announced that around 2,000 acres in Nadia district have been identified for Kolkata’s second airport, alongside expansion plans for Balurghat, Malda and Purulia airports.
West Bengal Moves Ahead With Kolkata’s Second Airport Project
The West Bengal government has identified nearly 2,000 acres of land in Kalyani, located in Nadia district, for the proposed construction of a second airport for Kolkata.
Announcing the development at a Transport Department event on Tuesday, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari said the state administration is committed to strengthening transport infrastructure in partnership with the Central government.
According to the chief minister, the proposed airport is expected to improve connectivity in and around Kolkata while supporting the region’s growing economic and transportation needs.
Proposed Site Located in Nadia District
The land identified for the airport stretches from the rear side of AIIMS Kalyani to Narapati Para in Simurali under the Chakdaha Assembly constituency, according to media reports.
The proposed project is aimed at easing the pressure on Kolkata’s existing airport and accommodating future growth in passenger and cargo traffic.
Officials believe that the new airport could significantly enhance air connectivity in eastern India and boost investment opportunities in the surrounding areas.
State Government Highlights Cooperation With Centre
Addressing the gathering, Adhikari said that the state government is working closely with the Centre to improve aviation infrastructure across West Bengal.
He claimed that former Union Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia had previously sought land for a second airport near Kolkata. However, the then state government had informed the Centre that land acquisition in Bhangar was not feasible.
The chief minister reiterated that the current administration is prioritising infrastructure projects that can accelerate economic growth and improve public services.
Expansion Planned for Balurghat, Malda and Purulia Airports
In addition to the proposed airport near Kolkata, the state government has also announced plans to expand airports in Balurghat, Malda and Purulia.
The expansion projects are expected to strengthen regional connectivity and improve access to several parts of the state.
The government believes that upgrading these airports will support tourism, trade and economic activities while creating new opportunities for local communities.
Concerns Raised Over Decline in International Connectivity
Adhikari also criticised the previous administration over what he described as a decline in Kolkata’s international aviation links.
He argued that inadequate focus on the aviation sector had led to the discontinuation of several international routes from the city, affecting connectivity and economic prospects.
The chief minister stressed that strengthening the state’s aviation infrastructure would remain a key priority as West Bengal seeks to expand its transport network.
Key Takeaways
- West Bengal has identified around 2,000 acres in Kalyani, Nadia district, for Kolkata’s second airport.
- The proposed site extends from the rear of AIIMS Kalyani to Narapati Para in Simurali.
- The state government has announced plans to expand airports in Balurghat, Malda and Purulia.
- The project aims to improve regional and international connectivity.
- The government said it is working with the Centre to strengthen transport infrastructure.
FAQs
Where will Kolkata’s second airport be built?
The proposed airport is planned on around 2,000 acres of land in Kalyani, Nadia district.
Which other airports are set for expansion?
The airports in Balurghat, Malda and Purulia are slated for expansion.
Why is a second airport being proposed for Kolkata?
The project aims to improve connectivity and meet future passenger and cargo demands.
What did the chief minister say about international air routes?
Suvendu Adhikari said that several international routes were discontinued due to inadequate focus on the aviation sector in previous years.
