On Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the Maa Mahamaya Airport in Darima village, Surguja district, Chhattisgarh. This new airport is expected to significantly enhance connectivity for millions in Surguja and neighboring districts, including Jashpur, Surajpur, Balrampur, Korea, and Manendragarh-Chirmiri-Bharatpur.
Significance of the Airport
The Maa Mahamaya Airport aims to bridge the remote tribal district of Surguja with the rest of the country. The new air service will provide residents easier access to major cities, enabling a more cost-effective and time-saving travel option. With the airport now operational, the region’s inhabitants can look forward to improved opportunities for travel and commerce.
The inauguration was attended by notable figures, including Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, Governor Ramen Deka, and Union Minister of Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu. During the event, Chief Minister Sai emphasized the historical significance of the airport for the region, stating, “This initiative is not just about facilitating air travel; it is a crucial step in integrating our tribal communities and remote areas into the mainstream of development.”
Economic and Employment Opportunities
The new airport is poised to create numerous employment opportunities and facilitate easier transport for local entrepreneurs. Rajesh, an entrepreneur from Ambikapur, expressed his excitement, saying, “Now we can easily transport our products to other cities. Earlier, traveling by road was lengthy and expensive, but now we can send our local products directly to cities like Delhi and Kolkata.”
In addition to economic benefits, the airport is expected to boost tourism in the Surguja region. The area is known for its beautiful valleys and attractions like the hill station of Manpur and the historic Ramgarh caves. The easier access provided by the airport is anticipated to enhance Surguja’s appeal as a tourist destination.
Airport Specifications and Development
The upgrade of the airstrip at Maa Mahamaya Airport was completed under the Government of India’s Regional Connectivity Scheme. Covering 365 acres and constructed at a cost of Rs 80 crore, the airport is classified as a 3C VFR category airport, capable of accommodating 72-seater aircraft. The expanded terminal building is designed to handle an estimated capacity of 500,000 passengers annually.