Bhubaneswar, Jan 9:On Tuesday, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik officially inaugurated the Malkangiri Airport, marking the realization of a longstanding aspiration for the local community. This development adds Malkangiri to the aviation map, fostering hopes for substantial advancements in communication, tourism, and trade within the district and its environs.

The Chief Minister expressed optimism that the newfound air connectivity would catalyze significant progress in Malkangiri's overall development, particularly in the remote areas of the state. Notably, previous airports had been established in Jeypore (Koraput), Utkela (Kalahandi), Rourkela, and Rangeilunda (Ganjam), contributing to regional connectivity and economic growth.

Spread across 233 acres, Malkangiri Airport boasts a 1620-meter runway with a width of 30 meters, requiring an investment of Rs 70 crore. Chief Minister Patnaik, along with VK Pandian, the Chairman of 5T and Nabin Odisha, attended the inauguration ceremony, emphasizing the significance of this milestone for the region.

During his visit to Malkangiri, the Chief Minister granted approval for the proposed Govind Pali Integrated Irrigation Project, allocating a budget of Rs 4000 crore for its implementation. The comprehensive project report has already been prepared, highlighting the commitment to enhancing irrigation capabilities and promoting agricultural development in the district.

It's noteworthy that VK Pandian, Chairman of 5T and Nabin Odisha, had previously engaged with the local community on March 28, discussing the construction of an irrigation project in the Saptdhara river. Responding to the community's proposal, the detailed project report for the Govind Pali Integrated Irrigation Project, encompassing two dams at Saptdhara and Garia, a connecting tunnel, and an irrigation system through underground pipelines, was formulated. The project has obtained approval from the Technical Advisory Committee and has been forwarded to the Central Water Commission.

Powered by Froala Editor