en.Wedoany.com Reported - The Telangana government has made progress on plans to build a greenfield airport in the Bhadradri Kothagudem region, selecting two alternative sites—Seethampeta and Sujathanagar—based on a feasibility study. The study identified these two locations as the most viable, considering factors such as land conditions, terrain, environmental impact, runway orientation, and transport connectivity. The project proposal is currently awaiting approval from the Union government.
Raj Technologies prepared the feasibility report after surveying six potential sites, concluding that approximately 667 acres of land could be developed at the two preferred locations without significant technical or environmental constraints. The proposed facility is expected to accommodate ATR 72-600 aircraft, aiming to improve regional air connectivity. The state agriculture minister has submitted the report to the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation, seeking early approval.
The minister highlighted the strategic importance of the region as a tribal area, industrial hub, and tourist destination, citing major employers such as Singareni coalfields, the Heavy Water Plant, ITC, and BPL. He also emphasized that the airport would benefit pilgrims visiting the Sri Sita Ramachandra Swamy Temple in Bhadrachalam. Often referred to as "Dakshina Ayodhya," the temple attracts hundreds of thousands of devotees annually from India and abroad. The airport is seen as a means to improve accessibility for tourists and pilgrims while supporting the local economy.
Local officials stated that the project would support the region's forest resources, mineral wealth, ecotourism potential, and the proposed Earth Sciences University, while also encouraging new investments. In its report to the central government, the state government pledged full cooperation in implementing the project and attached the feasibility report. Supporters believe that, if approved by the central government, the airport will significantly boost regional economic growth.
The project proposal is now at a critical stage. Once approved, it will trigger the preparation of a detailed project report, land acquisition planning, and technical assessments for runway and terminal design. Stakeholders expect that improved air connectivity will enhance access for industries, students, and tourists, creating new investment opportunities for the region. Further progress depends on the Union government's review and additional approvals required to move from the feasibility phase to construction.
