The Maharashtra Airport Development Company (MADC) is set to acquire 229 hectares of land across four villages-Murkhada, Pulkhal, Kanori, and Mudjha-for a greenfield airport in Gadchiroli. Approved by a recent government resolution, the project aims to improve connectivity and foster economic growth. Following a prefeasibility study by the Airports Authority of India (AAI), the airport will feature a 2,500-2,800 metre runway. Targeted to be operational within 4-5 years, the airport will support growing industrial and mining activities, transforming Gadchiroli into a connected hub and integrating the district into Maharashtra's development framework.
The Maharashtra Airport Development Company (MADC), a state-owned enterprise behind the Mihan-SEZ project, is gearing up to acquire 229 hectares of land for the construction of a greenfield airport in Gadchiroli. A government resolution (GR) issued recently confirmed MADC as the agency responsible for land acquisition. The land, spanning four villages-Murkhada, Pulkhal, Kanori, and Mudjha-comprises both private and government holdings.
The proposed airport site is located near Gadchiroli town. According to sources, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) has completed a prefeasibility study, covering aspects like runway approach and wind direction, enabling the land acquisition process to proceed. The GR stated that the airport aims to uplift living standards in the district, which is home to a predominantly tribal population. It is anticipated to bring Gadchiroli's residents into the economic mainstream, contributing to the state's overall development.
The district's needs have expanded, driven by growing industrial activities and mining investments. The government aims to create the airport to aid this growth and improve air connectivity planned to major cities like Mumbai and Delhi. The project initially proposed a runway of 2,500 to 2,800 metres to accommodate wide-bodied aircraft. Although the final plans are yet to be approved, sources indicate that if the land acquisition process and other steps are completed on schedule, the airport could become operational in four to five years.
MADC oversees airports in Amravati, Solapur, Karad, Pune, and Shirdi, in addition to Nagpur. For Nagpur, it has partnered with GMR for a brownfield expansion under a concessionaire agreement. GMR will take over operations previously managed by Mihan India Limited (MIL), a joint venture between MADC and the Airports Authority of India.
The proposed airport at Gadchiroli represents a significant step towards improving connectivity and fostering development in the district. Initially aimed at enhancing security operations, the project now aligns with the region's growing industrial and commercial needs. By linking Gadchiroli to major cities and facilitating investment, the airport promises to boost economic growth and elevate living standards, particularly for its tribal population. While challenges like land acquisition remain, the project's potential to transform Gadchiroli into a well-connected hub underscores its importance for Maharashtra's overall progress.
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