image credits: Dr.Gyana Das
On the morning of January 29, 2025, a significant milestone was achieved in Odisha with the first flight landing at the newly developed Dhamra Airstrip. This event signifies a crucial advancement in the region’s connectivity and economic development, particularly enhancing the operations at the Dhamra Port.
The Journey of Dhamra Airstrip
The journey to establish the Dhamra Airstrip began in 2018 when the Adani Group, through its subsidiary Dhamra Port Company Limited (DPCL), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Odisha government.
The aim was to develop an airport to boost commercial activities around the Dhamra Port, located in the Bhadrak district. This strategic location, 20 km from the port, was chosen to facilitate quicker and more efficient transportation for port-related activities.
In November 2018, the State Government of Odisha, recognizing the potential economic benefits, signed the MoU with DPCL for the development of a commercial airport. The project was set on a grand scale, with the government allocating 274 acres of land for the Dhamra Airstrip development, as approved in January 2020.
This development was part of a larger investment of Rs. 500 crore, aimed at constructing a runway of 3,200 meters, which is substantial enough to handle significant air traffic.
Significance of Dhamra Airstrip Development for Odisha
The Dhamra Airstrip development is not just about creating a runway; it’s a gateway to increased economic activity in Odisha. The primary purpose of this airstrip is to serve the logistical needs of the Dhamra Port, which is critical for the import and export activities in the region.
However, there’s speculation about its future use in civil aviation, which could potentially open up new avenues for tourism and business travel in Odisha, enhancing the Dhamra Airstrip development’s impact.
Investment in Dhamra Airstrip
The Dhamra Airstrip development is part of a broader vision to transform Odisha into a hub for industrial and commercial activities. The investment by DPCL, a 100% subsidiary of Adani Ports, underscores the commitment to infrastructural growth in the state.
This project aligns with several other infrastructural developments under implementation in Odisha, showcasing a concerted effort to enhance the state’s industrial landscape.
For instance, the Department of Agriculture & Farmer’s Empowerment, Govt. of Odisha, is developing an Agro Industrial Estate in Semela village, funded with Rs. 12.76 crore.
Similarly, Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOCL) has been allocated around 3,300 acres for a massive oil refinery project, with an investment of approximately Rs 30,000 crores.
Future Prospects for Dhamra Airstrip
The establishment of the Dhamra Airstrip is expected to have a ripple effect on the local economy. By reducing the dependency on distant airports for port-related activities, it will decrease transit times, thereby improving efficiency and reducing costs for businesses operating through Dhamra Port.
This could lead to an increase in trade volume, attracting more businesses to set up operations in the vicinity, leveraging the improved connectivity brought by the Dhamra Airstrip development.
Moreover, should the airstrip open for civil aviation, it could serve as a catalyst for tourism in the region, particularly for those interested in exploring the coastal areas of Odisha, known for their natural beauty and biodiversity.
The improved infrastructure would make Odisha more accessible, potentially leading to increased investments in hospitality and related sectors, further amplifying the Dhamra Airstrip development’s benefits.
Technical Specifications of Dhamra Airstrip Odisha
The Dhamra Airstrip, with its 3,200-meter runway, is designed to accommodate various types of aircraft, which is crucial for the heavy cargo operations expected at the port. The specifications of the airstrip are tailored to meet both current and future demands, ensuring scalability as the region’s economic activities grow, all part of the Dhamra Airstrip development initiative.
