The Odisha Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation (IDCO) has taken a significant step towards the establishment of the Sri Jagannath International Airport in Sipasarubali, Puri, by inviting tenders for the development, operation, and maintenance of its first phase. This major infrastructure project, estimated at Rs 2,203 crore, is set to be executed under the Public Private Partnership (PPP) mode, emphasizing the collaboration between the public and private sectors. The first phase of construction, with a targeted capacity to handle 4.6 Million Passengers Per Annum (MPPA), is anticipated to be completed within a span of three years.
As part of the procurement process, the filing of online tenders is scheduled to commence from February 21, with the technical bids slated to be opened on April 21. The Sri Jagannath International Airport, a long-awaited and much-anticipated development, will occupy a sprawling land plot encompassing approximately 1,164 acres in Sipasarubali, Puri. The choice of a Greenfield Airports (GFA) Policy, 2008, aligns with modern airport development strategies and is indicative of the commitment to adopting environmentally friendly practices.
This pivotal airport project has garnered support and approval from the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA), receiving the crucial site clearance approval in 2023. The strategic location of the airport in Puri holds significance, driven by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik’s vision to boost tourism in the region. His appeal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2021 for the establishment of an international airport in Puri reflects the recognition of the area’s potential for increased tourist footfall.
The development of the Sri Jagannath International Airport is poised to contribute significantly to the economic and tourism landscape of Odisha. The concerted efforts of the public and private sectors in this venture aim to create a state-of-the-art airport facility that not only enhances connectivity but also aligns with sustainable and responsible development practices. The initiation of the tendering process marks a crucial milestone in the realization of this ambitious airport project, showcasing the commitment to fostering economic growth and infrastructure development in the region.