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The civil enclaves at Hasimara and Kalaikunda would provide facilities for civilian air operations at the existing Air Force stations (file photo)
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ANI
A major infrastructure boost from the Centre is planned for West Bengal’s aviation sector. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) plans to develop civil aviation infrastructure at four locations in the eastern state, sources told businessline.
The proposed development covers the airfields at Hasimara, Kalaikunda, Malda and Balurghat.
According to sources, AAI and the Government of West Bengal are scheduled to sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) in Kolkata next month, which will establish a framework for the coordinated implementation of the projects.
The proposal envisages the development of civil enclaves at the Hasimara and Kalaikunda Air Force Stations, along with the revival of Balurghat Airport through its transfer back to AAI.
While Malda is included among the four locations, the specific scope of development is yet to be worked out, sources said.
Under the proposed arrangement, the responsibilities of AAI and the State government will be defined to facilitate coordinated implementation.
Accordingly, the Government of West Bengal would facilitate the availability of land required for the civil enclaves and airports, free from all encumbrances.
Besides, the State would extend support for statutory clearances, external infrastructure and inter-departmental coordination to enable timely implementation.
The proposed transfer of Balurghat Airport back to AAI would facilitate systematic planning and phased infrastructure development.
Meanwhile, the civil enclaves at Hasimara and Kalaikunda would provide facilities for civilian air operations at the existing Air Force stations.
As per the proposal, development at the four locations would improve regional air connectivity in the northern and western parts of the State.
These projects, sources said, are envisaged to support tourism, trade, agriculture, healthcare, education and industrial development, while creating employment opportunities and driving economic growth.
Furthermore, the proposal places the initiatives within the Ministry of Civil Aviation’s broader efforts to expand regional connectivity and optimise existing aviation infrastructure.
The proposal envisages these projects as part of an expanded regional aviation network, linking infrastructure development with opportunities across the sectors identified in the proposal.
In addition, the plan proposes developing modern, efficient and future-ready airports, in line with the broader national vision of Viksit Bharat.
However, the details shared so far do not specify project costs, construction timelines or dates for the commencement of passenger services.
Additionally, sources said that specific project costs would be worked out subsequently within the framework of the MoU.
Published on September 27, 2026
