Balurghat Airport to Start Within a Year, CM Announces Three Major Projects

Balurghat Airport will be operational within a year, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced during his first visit to South Dinajpur district since assuming office. The Chief Minister inspected the proposed airport site in Balurghat on Wednesday and announced three major projects for the district.

According to the Chief Minister, Balurghat Airport will initially handle smaller aircraft with a capacity of 19 passengers. The government plans to subsequently introduce flight services operated by aircraft with a capacity of 72 passengers.

Alongside the airport project, the Chief Minister announced the expansion of academic courses at a university in Balurghat and the construction of a new medical college at an estimated cost of ₹344 crore.

Balurghat Airport to Become Operational Within One Year

The proposed Balurghat Airport was the main focus of the Chief Minister's visit to the district.

After inspecting the land earmarked for the airport, Adhikari said the facility would be operational within one year. He said the initial flight service would be operated using aircraft with 19 seats.

The government subsequently plans to introduce larger aircraft with a capacity of 72 passengers, according to the announcement.

Phased Expansion of Flight Services

The proposed airport is expected to begin operations in a phased manner. The initial introduction of smaller aircraft would allow flight connectivity to begin with limited capacity before services are expanded.

The eventual introduction of 72-seat aircraft is expected to increase the number of passengers who can travel by air from Balurghat.

Improved air connectivity could also benefit residents, businesses and visitors travelling to and from South Dinajpur.

Medical College to Be Built in Balurghat

The second major announcement concerns the establishment of a medical college in Balurghat.

The proposed medical college will be constructed at an estimated cost of ₹344 crore, according to the Chief Minister.

Adhikari also inspected the proposed site for the project during his visit.

₹100 Crore to Be Allocated Soon

The Chief Minister said that ₹100 crore out of the proposed ₹344 crore project cost would be allocated soon.

He further announced that the foundation ceremony for the medical college would be held before Kali Puja. The Chief Minister said he would be present at the ceremony.

The proposed medical college is expected to strengthen healthcare infrastructure in Balurghat and provide new opportunities for medical education in the district.

More Subjects to Be Introduced at Balurghat University

The third major announcement relates to higher education.

According to Adhikari, a university in Balurghat is currently offering courses in only three subjects. The government will approve the introduction of seven subjects before Janmashtami, he said.

The expansion of academic subjects is aimed at providing students in the district with access to a wider range of higher education opportunities.

Focus on Higher Education

The proposed expansion would increase the academic options available to students without requiring them to travel outside the district for every specialised course.

The announcement of additional subjects comes alongside the proposed medical college and Balurghat Airport, forming part of the government's stated development plans for South Dinajpur.

Road Repairs to Be Completed by October 10

The Chief Minister also announced a deadline for repairing roads in Balurghat.

According to Adhikari, all roads in the town would be repaired by October 10.

The announcement comes as the state government focuses on improving local infrastructure alongside larger projects such as the airport and medical college.

New Fire Station for Balurghat

A new fire station will also be established in the area, the Chief Minister announced.