Patna: Chief minister Samrat Choudhary on Saturday directed officials to prepare a comprehensive plan for the development of airports in all districts of the state, stressing that safety and quality must remain central to every project.Chairing a review meeting of the civil aviation department at the CM secretariat, Choudhary said the state govt is moving ahead with concrete initiatives for Aerocity projects. These aim to develop commercial, hospitality, logistics and tourism-related infrastructure around major airports to generate wider economic opportunities alongside improved aviation facilities.He said the Bihar govt is committed to strengthening air connectivity while promoting tourism and attracting investment, adding that better aviation infrastructure would accelerate economic growth and improve access to remote regions.Civil aviation department secretary Nilesh Ramchandra Deore, through a presentation, briefed the CM on ongoing efforts to strengthen air infrastructure and international connectivity. He said airport development, aviation training, disaster management and the operation of VIP flight services are being prioritised.
Deore added that an ambitious policy has been put in place to expand international air connectivity, with steps underway to launch flights from Patna and Gaya to multiple overseas destinations, benefiting business and tourism.The CM said special focus is also being given to smaller and regional airports, noting rapid progress in runway expansion, terminal construction and operations under the UDAN scheme. Once completed, he said, these projects would boost connectivity and accelerate balanced regional development.Reviewing the works of the urban development and housing department, Choudhary directed officials to focus on long-term planning for the expansion of existing cities. UDHD principal secretary Vinay Kumar presented a roadmap for 11 satellite or greenfield townships, with adequate space reserved for future expansion.He said the govt will invest in roads, drainage and other public infrastructure, with urban development carried out through private investment under the master plan grid, ensuring at least 55% of land is returned to landowners. The CM directed that city maps for cleanliness, traffic management and expansion be digitised and made publicly accessible to improve ease of living across Bihar.
