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Madhya Pradesh is set to expand its aviation network by increasing the number of airports from eight to ten over the next two years. New airports in Ujjain and Shivpuri are under development, while several airstrips are being considered for upgrades under the regional connectivity plan. The state is also improving existing infrastructure, including the upgraded terminal at Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport in Indore, which has raised passenger handling capacity. These steps aim to improve connectivity, support tourism, and strengthen economic activity across smaller cities.
Madhya Pradesh is moving ahead with plans to strengthen its aviation infrastructure by increasing the number of airports in the state from eight to ten within the next two years. This will be achieved through the development of new airports in Ujjain and Shivpuri, where work is currently in progress and expected to be completed within the planned timeline. Advertisement
The announcement was made by Chief Minister Mohan Yadav during the inauguration of the renovated terminal at Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport in Indore. He stated that the state currently has eight operational airports, along with around 20 airstrips and nearly 220 helipads. With the addition of the two upcoming airports, the total number is expected to reach ten, improving overall air connectivity across regions.
He further indicated that apart from the new airports, the government is also focusing on upgrading existing airstrips. Locations such as Shahdol, Neemuch, Chhindwara and Mandla are being considered for development into full-fledged airports under the regional connectivity framework. This step is expected to improve access to smaller cities and reduce dependence on distant aviation hubs.
The state is also working on a broader aviation plan to ensure better reach across districts. As part of this approach, there is a plan to develop an airstrip approximately every 145 km. This is aimed at improving last-mile connectivity and making air travel more accessible in interior regions.
Alongside expansion, existing infrastructure is also being strengthened. The old terminal building at Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport has been renovated at a cost of around INR 50 crore and is now being used as Terminal 1. With this upgrade, the airport now operates with two terminals, increasing its annual passenger handling capacity to around 50 lakh. At present, more than 100 flights, including scheduled and special services, operate daily from this airport, making it one of the key aviation hubs in the state.
This development builds on earlier efforts under the regional connectivity scheme, where smaller airports such as Rewa and Satna have been made operational. The continued focus on both new infrastructure and upgrades shows a steady approach towards expanding aviation access across Madhya Pradesh.
Source PTI
FAQ
1. What is the new aviation plan announced for Madhya Pradesh?
The state government plans to increase the number of airports from eight to ten within the next two years. This expansion will be done by developing new airports in Ujjain and Shivpuri, along with upgrading existing airstrips. The overall aim is to improve connectivity across the state and make air travel more accessible.
2. Which new airports are currently under development?
New airports are being developed in Ujjain and Shivpuri, where work is already in progress. These are expected to be completed within the planned timeline and will add to the state's existing aviation network, helping connect more regions directly by air.
3. Is the government focusing only on new airports or also on existing infrastructure?
Along with new airports, the government is also upgrading existing infrastructure. Several airstrips in places like Shahdol, Neemuch, Chhindwara, and Mandla are being considered for conversion into full-fledged airports under the regional connectivity plan. This balanced approach helps improve both new and existing facilities.
4. What improvements have been made at Indore airport?
Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport has undergone a terminal upgrade, where the old terminal was renovated at a cost of around INR 50 crore and is now used as Terminal 1. With two terminals now operational, the airport's annual passenger handling capacity has increased to around 50 lakh, along with over 100 daily flights.
5. How will this expansion benefit smaller cities in the state?
The focus on upgrading airstrips and developing airports in smaller cities will improve regional connectivity. It will reduce dependence on major cities for air travel and make it easier for people in interior areas to access flights, saving time and improving convenience.
6. What is the long-term vision behind this aviation expansion?
The state is working on a broader plan to improve last-mile connectivity by developing an airstrip roughly every 145 km. This will help create a more evenly distributed aviation network and ensure that even remote areas are better connected.
7. How will this impact tourism and economic activity?
Better air connectivity is expected to support tourism, especially in cities like Ujjain, which have religious and cultural importance. It will also boost local economies by improving business travel, attracting investments, and making movement of people more efficient across the state.
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