CG: Sahu asks state government to submit proposal under UDAN

RAIPUR,INDIA: The Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik (UDAN) Scheme under Budget 2025 aims to boost regional air connectivity by improving infrastructure, adding new routes, and operational airports.

The central government plans to introduce 100 new RCS routes and 12 new RCS airports during the financial year 2025-26. The Ministry of Civil Aviation will focus on upgrading infrastructure based on proposals from the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and state governments, including airport developments, helipads, and water drone upgrades.

Tokhan Sahu, Union Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs, urged Chhattisgarh’s state government to submit a formal proposal to the central government to leverage these new budget allocations. He emphasized that collaboration between state and central governments would address current challenges and enhance connectivity, benefiting the citizens of Chhattisgarh and neighbouring regions.

Sahu has long advocated for the expansion of airports in Chhattisgarh. He previously supported upgrading Bilaspur Airport’s runway from the 3C to the 4C category and installing night landing facilities. These improvements would enhance regional air connectivity, supporting larger aircraft and increasing operational capacity for passengers and cargo.

Additionally, Sahu expressed strong support for developing Raipur Airport into an international hub. This expansion would connect Raipur to international destinations, boosting the region’s economic and tourism potential. Sahu remarked, “Transforming Raipur Airport into an international hub will offer a more accessible and efficient gateway, reducing the need for travelers from the state and neighboring areas to go to major airports like Mumbai and Delhi.”

Under the UDAN Scheme, three airports in Chhattisgarh—Jagdalpur, Bilaspur, and Ambikapur—have been developed for RCS flights. These airports have operationalized 16 RCS routes, benefiting over 231,000 passengers and improving access to air travel.

Despite the success of the UDAN Scheme, challenges remain. Sahu reassured that steps would be taken to address these, including enhancing airport infrastructure and extending runways to accommodate larger aircraft, reaffirming his commitment to improving the aviation sector in Chhattisgarh.