West Bengal Begins Development of Purulia Airport to Boost Regional Connectivity

Main Article
Mon, Nov 17, 12:05 AM IST

In a major push to regional air connectivity and economic growth, the West Bengal government has announced the development of a new airport in Purulia, transforming an 80-year-abandoned airstrip in the Chharra area into a modern aviation facility. The project is expected to significantly enhance access to several industrial belts in neighbouring Jharkhand, strengthening cross-border trade and travel.

 

A Strategic Move by Bengal

 

Transport Minister Snehashish Chakraborty confirmed that a delegation from the state transport department recently surveyed the site and finalised the location for the upcoming airport. Unlike a full-scale commercial airport, the Purulia facility will be developed as a small airport with high regional value, at an estimated cost of ₹150 crore.

 

“The old airstrip at Chharra has been identified for the new airport. We will develop it as a small airport, not a regular large one,” the minister stated.

 

Phase 1: Key Infrastructure Development

 

The airport will be constructed in two phases, with the first phase focused on establishing essential infrastructure for short-haul regional flights. Phase 1 includes:

 

  • A 1,100-metre-long runway
  • Four parking bays for aircraft
  • Air Traffic Control (ATC) building
  • Terminal building equipped to handle around 160 passengers per day
  • Fire station and electrical substation
  • Three watchtowers
  • Underground reservoir and cooling pit
  • Construction of a boundary wall around the premises

 

Once completed, the airport will be capable of accommodating 19-seater aircraft, with operators eligible for subsidies under the Centre’s UDAN regional connectivity scheme.

 

Phase 2: Expansion for Larger Aircraft

 

In the second phase, the runway will be extended to 1,700 metres, enabling operations of 42-seater ATR aircraft, widely used for regional aviation across India. This expansion will significantly increase passenger capacity and flight options for the region.

 

Why Purulia Matters

 

Purulia's strategic location near the Jharkhand border makes it a crucial link to several industrial zones. The new airport is expected to benefit:

 

  • Small and medium enterprises (SMEs)
  • Industrial workers commuting between states
  • Logistics and supply chain networks
  • Tourism in Purulia and surrounding districts

 

With improved air connectivity, Purulia could emerge as a gateway to the western part of West Bengal while providing faster access to industrial hubs across Jharkhand.

 

A Boost for Regional Growth

 

The revival of the Chharra airstrip marks a significant step towards strengthening eastern India’s aviation map. As Bengal continues to focus on infrastructure-led growth, the Purulia airport project reflects the state’s commitment to enhancing mobility, boosting industry, and driving balanced regional development.

 

Kolkata Calling will continue to track this project closely and bring you updates as the work progresses.