A Major Infrastructure Initiative for Puri
The Odisha government has embarked on an ambitious plan to develop the Shree Jagannath International Airport in Puri, aiming to enhance connectivity and boost tourism. As part of this initiative, 221 acres of land in the Sipasarubali and Sandhapur areas under Brahmagiri tehsil are set to be acquired. The project, spanning a total of 1,164 acres, is progressing with environmental clearances, compensation measures, and public consultations.
Public Hearings for Land Acquisition
Puri Sub-Collector Raj Kishore Jena announced that public hearings have been scheduled to address concerns regarding land acquisition. The hearings will also provide affected residents with detailed information about compensation measures. The first hearing for Sipasarubali is set for March 21 at the village field, while the second for Sandhapur will take place on March 28 at the Kalyan Mandap in the village.
Compensation and Rehabilitation Measures
To ensure a fair transition for displaced families, the government has introduced a comprehensive compensation package in accordance with the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation, and Resettlement Act, 2013. The package includes:
· Displacement Allowance: Rs 5 lakh per displaced family.
· Housing Assistance: Rs 3.39 lakh for constructing a new house.
· Relocation Support: Rs 1.13 lakh for transportation and shifting of household materials.
· Livelihood Assistance: Rs 54,300 to support families for a year.
· Business Support: Rs 25,000 for setting up shops.
Environmental Clearances and Impact Assessments
The project has received approval from the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change for the conversion of 25 acres of forest land for airport use. Additionally, a socio-economic impact assessment has been conducted to evaluate the potential effects on the local community, ensuring that concerns related to environmental and social implications are addressed.
Background and Progress of the Project
The idea of an international airport in Puri first gained momentum in 2021 when then Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik proposed it to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. By October 2023, the Ministry of Civil Aviation granted site clearance, marking a significant step forward.
The airport is planned to be developed in three phases, with an estimated project cost of Rs 5,631 crore. Leading infrastructure firms such as the Fairfax Group, Adani Group, and GMR Group have expressed interest in executing the project. Once completed, the Shree Jagannath International Airport is expected to enhance tourism and contribute significantly to the local economy.
A Transformative Project for Odisha
With land acquisition, public consultations, and compensation measures underway, the Shree Jagannath International Airport project is making steady progress. The airport will not only facilitate better connectivity to Puri but also stimulate economic growth and tourism in the region. As authorities proceed with clearances and discussions, all eyes remain on the successful execution of this transformative infrastructure development.
(With inputs from agencies)
