Jharsuguda’s Veer Surendra Sai Airport is gearing up for a substantial enhancement, backed by a ₹2,100 crore allocation from the Union government, aimed at upgrading its facilities for wide-body aircraft.
This funding, which has been approved under a national initiative for the modernization of international airports, paves the way for extensive improvements to both the civil and airside operations at VSS Airport, as detailed by local officials and reported by The Times of India.
A key component of the development plan includes extending the current runway from 2,391 meters to 3,600 meters, making it suitable for long-haul and heavier passenger airplanes. The project will also introduce a newly constructed parallel taxi track, additional aprons, and more parking bays to facilitate increased aircraft turnaround.
To enhance passenger experience and administrative functionality, the expansion plan features the construction of a second terminal, a dedicated administrative building, and upgrades to approach lighting and navigation systems, which are essential for improved landings in low-visibility conditions.
Implementation of this project now depends on securing the necessary land. Pradeep Purohit, the Member of Parliament for Bargarh, confirmed that the financial approval is in place, and the Odisha state government is actively pursuing the land acquisition needed to commence the project. The ₹2,100 crore will be allocated to the site once the required land parcels are officially transferred, according to the lawmaker.
The airport currently occupies a 1,027-acre site. To facilitate the extended runway, expanded safety zones, and specialized equipment for larger aircraft, the state is working to acquire an additional 226 acres.
