Forest Department Clears Path for New Aviation Hub Near Jamshedpur
Dhalbhumgarh airport construction advances as Forest Department agrees to land exchange. AAI team’s survey of WWII-era airfields sparks renewed interest in regional aviation development.
JAMSHEDPUR – Forest officials have agreed to allocate land for the Dhalbhumgarh airport project, requesting 99.256 hectares as compensation, marking a significant breakthrough in the long-delayed venture.
The Dhalbhumgarh airport project has received a substantial boost as the Forest Department clears a major obstacle.
This development has reignited hopes for a new aviation hub in the Jamshedpur region, potentially transforming local transportation and economic landscapes.
An Airports Authority of India (AAI) team recently conducted a thorough survey of the dormant World War II-era airfields in Chakulia and Dhalbhumgarh, sparking renewed interest in the venture.
The team, led by Joint General Manager Dhananjay Tiwari, meticulously examined both sites, assessing their potential for revival.
“The inspection revealed promising prospects for both Chakulia and Dhalbhumgarh,” stated one official. “The existing infrastructure, coupled with strategic location, positions these sites as ideal candidates for modern airport development.”
Land Allocation Challenges
The Jharkhand government’s Civil Aviation Division has taken proactive steps to address land allocation issues. Captain S.P. Sinha, Director of Operations, has formally requested the District Collector to arrange compensatory land for the Forest Department.
“We’re exploring all options to secure the required 99.256 hectares for the Forest Department,” one state official explained. “If suitable land isn’t available in East Singhbhum, we’re prepared to look at alternatives in neighboring districts.”
Project Scope and Timeline
Initially conceived in 2019 with a budget of 100 crore rupees, the Dhalbhumgarh International Airport project has faced numerous setbacks.
The original plan envisioned operations commencing by 2020, accommodating 72-seater aircraft.
The proposed airport site covers 425 acres, featuring a 2.5 km runway. Its proximity to NH 33 and Dhalbhumgarh railway station—both just 0.5 km away—underscores its potential as a pivotal transportation nexus for the region.
Shashank Shekhar Swain, a rail, aviation and space enthusiast has expressed happiness at the new developments.
He said: “It is heartening to note that there is a fresh movement on the airport front. The issue has been hanging fire for a long time and now one can hope things would finally reach their logical conclusion and the region would get an airport it deserves.”
