image credits: biltrax media
The allocation of 221 acres of land in Sipasarubali and Sandhapur for the Shree Jagannatha International Airport in Puri is a step towards enhancing the state’s connectivity with the piligrimage center. This development is part of the broader plan to develop a greenfield airport spanning 1,164 acres.
Modern Vision for a Sacred Site
The land allocated for the airport lies in the Sipasarubali and Sandhapur, approximately 30 kilometers from the revered Jagannath Temple in Puri. This 221-acre parcel is part of a larger 1,164-acre greenfield project designed to blend seamlessly with Puri’s sacred landscape. Known worldwide as a pilgrimage center and a coastal gem, Puri’s significance makes it an ideal location for this ambitious endeavor. The airport will serve as a gateway, inviting devotees and travelers to experience Odisha’s cultural richness with greater ease.
Laying the Foundation for Shree Jagannatha Airport Puri
The Shree Jagannatha International Airport was envisioned as a transformative project to elevate Odisha’s infrastructure while preserving its heritage. Initiated with an estimated investment of Rs 2,203 crore, it is being developed through a public-private partnership, spearheaded by the Odisha Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation (IDCO). The Ministry of Civil Aviation granted site clearance earlier, and forest clearance efforts began in 2023, showcasing a balanced approach to development. Designed to handle 4.6 million passengers annually in its first phase, the airport has drawn interest from global players like Adani, GMR, and Fairfax, signaling confidence in Odisha’s potential.
Land Acquisition for the Airport and Community Care
A key update emerged on March 12, 2025, when Puri Sub-Collector Rajkishore Jena announced the allocation of 221 acres under Brahmagiri tehsil. This step forward follows meticulous planning, with public hearings scheduled for March 21 and 28 to ensure transparency. Puri Collector Siddharth Shankar Swain has emphasized that affected farmers will receive compensation as per government norms, supported by a detailed socio-economic survey. The land acquisition process is not just about infrastructure, it is also about building trust with local communities.
Boosting Odisha’s Global Presence Through Shree Jagannatha Airport Puri
The allocation of this land paves the way for an airport that will transform Puri’s accessibility and amplify its global appeal. Pilgrims visiting the Jagannath Temple and tourists exploring Puri’s golden shores will benefit from enhanced connectivity, fostering a surge in cultural exchange and economic activity. Local artisans crafting pattachitra and vendors offering Odisha’s beloved chenna poda will find new opportunities as visitor numbers grow. Beyond tourism, the airport will strengthen trade links, connecting Odisha’s agricultural and industrial sectors to national and international markets.
