Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the Maa Mahamaya Airport at Darima in Surguja district, Chhattisgarh, on Sunday, October 20, 2024. This new airport will greatly improve air connectivity for the residents of Surguja and nearby districts, including Jashpur, Surajpur, Balrampur, Korea, and Manendragarh-Chirmiri-Bharatpur. With easier access to major cities across the country, the region is expected to see faster development and a boost in local economies.
For over eight decades, the people of Surguja and nearby districts hoped for better connections to the rest of the country. Their long-awaited dream came true with the opening of Maa Mahamaya Airport in Darima, Chhattisgarh. On October 20, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the airport virtually. This marks a historic moment for Surguja and the surrounding districts of Jashpur, Surajpur, Balrampur, Korea, and Manendragarh-Chirmiri-Bharatpur.
The new airport is set to transform northern Chhattisgarh, linking these districts to major cities across India. This improvement will enhance regional development, boost the local economy, and integrate the region into the national transportation network.
Key Features of Maa Mahamaya Airport
The Maa Mahamaya Airport was designed to cater to both passengers and businesses. Its key features include:
- Location: Ambikapur, Surguja District, Chhattisgarh
- Land Area: 365 acres
- Cost: Rs 80 crore
- Runway Capacity: Suitable for 72-seater aircraft
- Annual Passenger Capacity: 5 lakh passengers
- Key Destinations: Delhi, Kolkata, Jabalpur, Raipur, Jagdalpur, Bilaspur
Key Highlights of Maa Mahamaya Airport
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Ambikapur, Surguja District, Chhattisgarh |
| Land Area | 365 acres |
| Cost | Rs 80 crore |
| Runway Capacity | 72-seater aircraft |
| Annual Passenger Capacity | 5 lakh passengers |
| Direct Connectivity To | Delhi, Kolkata, Jabalpur, Raipur, Jagdalpur, Bilaspur |
| Benefits | Better connectivity, business growth, tourism boost |
The airport can handle a large number of passengers, offering direct links to major cities. This will reduce travel times and stimulate business, tourism, and development.
Transformative Impact on the Local Economy and Infrastructure
Boost to Local Industries
The Maa Mahamaya Airport will revolutionize the local economy. It provides a cost-effective and time-saving solution for over 10 lakh people in Surguja and surrounding districts. Local businesses, such as handicrafts, cottage industries, and agriculture, will now find it easier to expand beyond the region.
- Handicrafts: Surguja’s famous tribal handicrafts, known for their unique designs, can now reach markets across India and internationally, boosting growth.
- Cottage Industries: Faster transport will help local industries get their products to consumers more efficiently.
- Agriculture: Farmers will benefit from easier access to larger markets, increasing their reach.
Impact on Tourism
Surguja, known for its natural beauty and tribal heritage, offers vast potential as a tourist destination. With the new airport, visitors will find it easier to explore the region’s forests, culture, and eco-tourism opportunities. This increased accessibility will drive growth in the tourism and hospitality sectors, further benefiting the local economy.
Development and Integration: A Major Step Forward
The inauguration of Maa Mahamaya Airport signifies a crucial step toward integrating Chhattisgarh’s tribal communities into mainstream development. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai emphasized the airport’s significance:
“An eight-decade-old dream has come true. It marks a vital step in bringing our tribal communities and remote areas into mainstream development.”
This development is expected to uplift the region by creating new opportunities for employment, education, and investment.
Economic and Cultural Growth
Chhattisgarh Governor Ramen Deka highlighted the long-term benefits of the new airport:
“The airport will spur the region’s development, helping Surguja emerge as an economic and cultural hub.”
Surguja, connected to major cities, will play a key role in the national economy. As trade and tourism grow, the region’s cultural heritage will gain recognition, boosting both economic and cultural development.
Conclusion: A Bright Future for Chhattisgarh’s Northern Belt
The opening of Maa Mahamaya Airport marks the start of a new era for Chhattisgarh’s northern belt. The airport offers more than just connectivity—it represents a lifeline for over 10 lakh residents. With enhanced access to cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Raipur, the airport will play a crucial role in business, tourism, and socio-economic growth.
This development will create jobs, encourage trade, and promote the region’s unique culture. The airport stands as a symbol of progress, ushering in hope, opportunities, and integration for Surguja and beyond.
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