Direct Flights from Raipur to Singapore and Dubai Approved, Cargo Hub Plans in Works

Raipur
Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu approved the launch of international air services from Raipur’s Swami Vivekananda Airport after a meeting with Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnudeo Sai in New Delhi on Wednesday. The discussion focused on strengthening air connectivity in the state and developing regional airports. Plans to establish a cargo hub at Raipur Airport will also be initiated soon. Agreements were reached to start air services from Raipur to Patna and Ranchi.

During the meeting, CM Sai called for Swami Vivekananda Airport to be granted international airport status, emphasizing Chhattisgarh’s potential for international air services. He stated that this upgrade would boost the state’s economic growth and enhance global connectivity. Highlighting strong passenger demand, the Chief Minister advocated for direct flights from Raipur to Singapore and Dubai, noting their commercial viability. The Union Minister agreed to expedite these international services.

The Chief Minister also proposed the development of a central cargo hub at Raipur Airport, pointing out the lack of significant cargo facilities in the state. He explained that this initiative would facilitate the transportation of agricultural and horticultural products. The Union Minister assured prompt action on this proposal.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the upgrade of Bilaspur Airport to the 3C IFR category. CM Sai requested the speedy installation of the DVOR (Doppler VHF Omni Range) navigation system to enable night landings. The Union Minister directed officials to resolve the challenges hindering night landing operations at Bilaspur Airport.

CM Sai further requested new flight services from Ambikapur Airport to connect cities such as Raipur, Varanasi, Prayagraj, and Ayodhya. He stressed that these routes would benefit the region, given its rich cultural and mineral resources. The Union Minister positively received the proposal.

The Chief Minister also sought the reinstatement of financial assistance for Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) flights at Jagdalpur and Bilaspur airports. He pointed out that enhancing connectivity on these routes would promote regional development. Referring to the suspension of the Raipur-Jagdalpur flight operated by IndiGo due to low passenger turnout, CM Sai highlighted the significant tourism potential of Bastar and urged the resumption of the service. The Union Minister assured action on this and other proposals.
The meeting was attended by CM’s Secretary Rahul Bhagat and Chhattisgarh’s Investment Commissioner in New Delhi, Ritu Sain.