Chamber Urges Swift Action for Industrial City’s Air Connectivity
Jamshedpur’s business leaders push for Dhalbhumgarh Airport, citing economic growth potential. FJCCI urges swift clearances, highlighting benefits for industries and limitations of current air connectivity.
JAMSHEDPUR – The Federation of Jharkhand Chamber of Commerce and Industries rallies for expedited construction of Dhalbhumgarh Airport, aiming to bolster regional economic growth and ease travel woes.
Jamshedpur’s industrial landscape stands poised for transformation as local business leaders champion improved air connectivity.
The Federation of Jharkhand Chamber of Commerce and Industries (FJCCI) has intensified its appeal to government officials, urging rapid progress on the proposed Dhalbhumgarh Airport project.
In a recent communication to key stakeholders, FJCCI officials highlighted the pressing need for enhanced air travel options in the region.
The organization’s Secretary General, Paresh Gattani, emphasized the project’s significance, stating, "Our city’s industrial potential remains untapped due to limited air access. Dhalbhumgarh Airport isn’t just a convenience—it’s a catalyst for economic prosperity."
Current Air Connectivity Challenges
Jamshedpur presently relies on Sonari Airport, which operates under the UDAN scheme. However, its short runway restricts operations to 9-seater aircraft, limiting connectivity to nearby cities like Kolkata and Bhubaneswar.
This constraint has long been a bottleneck for business travelers and tourists alike.
"The existing setup at Sonari falls short of meeting our growing needs," explained Arun Joshi, a member of the Zonal Railway Users Consultative Committee. Backing him, Shashank Shekhar Swain, a Rail, Aviation & Space Enthusiast from Jamshedpur, said:"A full-fledged airport is crucial for attracting investment and facilitating business growth."
Benefits for Local Industry
The proposed airport is expected to yield substantial benefits for various sectors:
1. Large corporations such as Tata Steel, Tata Motors, and Uranium Corporation of India Limited (UCIL) anticipate improved logistics and business travel options.
2. Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in East Singhbhum district foresee enhanced market access and supply chain efficiencies.
3. The Food Corporation of India (FCI) and other public sector undertakings expect streamlined operations with better air connectivity.
Clearance Hurdles and Next Steps
Despite strong support, the project faces regulatory challenges. Forest and environmental clearances remain pending, with approximately 99.256 hectares of forest land earmarked for the airport’s first phase.
Kishor Mantri, President of FJCCI, urged swift action from authorities. "We’ve requested the Hon’ble Minister of Environment & Forest and the Airport Authority of India to expedite necessary clearances. Time is of the essence for Jamshedpur’s economic future."
As the city awaits this crucial infrastructure development, the coming months will be pivotal in determining whether Jamshedpur’s aspirations for improved air connectivity will take flight or face further delays.
