Patna: In a significant move to enhance air connectivity, the Bihar Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, approved the construction of an international airport in Sonpur, Saran district. The project aims to position Bihar on the global aviation map, providing direct international flight connections and boosting trade, tourism, and industrial growth.
Project Details: Sonpur International Airport
The proposed airport will be built on 4,228 acres of land between Hajiapur and Dumaria in the Dariyapur Chawar region. An initial fund of ₹1,302 crore has been sanctioned for land acquisition and preliminary works.
Officials confirmed that the airport will feature state-of-the-art infrastructure, including a runway capable of handling the largest aircraft, Airbus A380, for both take-off and landing. The project is targeted for completion by 2030, creating new employment opportunities and accelerating regional economic development.
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Flood Protection Measures for Bhagalpur
Alongside the airport approval, the Cabinet sanctioned ₹70 crore for anti-erosion measures near Ismailpur-Bindtola to prevent Ganga riverbank damage in Bhagalpur. The plan, prepared by the Water Resources Department, will protect the city from recurring flood risks caused by annual riverbank erosion.
Strengthening Healthcare: Appointment of Specialist Doctors
The Cabinet also approved the appointment of 1,800 specialist doctors across multiple fields, including obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, ENT, ophthalmology, and orthopedics. This initiative aims to strengthen Bihar’s healthcare system and ensure better medical services for residents.
Holistic Development Agenda
The approval of the Sonpur airport, combined with flood protection projects and healthcare expansion, reflects Bihar government’s comprehensive strategy to boost infrastructure, economic growth, and citizen welfare under the leadership of CM Nitish Kumar.
