The long-standing demand for a Greenfield Airport in Ganjam district, Odisha, has regained momentum as local residents and leaders renew calls for swift action from both the state and central governments. Despite prolonged discussions over the years, a final decision on a suitable location is yet to be taken.

The urgency intensified after the central government identified land for a greenfield airport just 30 km away, at Baruva in neighbouring Andhra Pradesh. In response, Odisha’s Transport Minister has urged authorities to establish a similar facility at Subani village, located close to the Odisha-Andhra Pradesh border.

The Minister highlighted that an airport at Subani would serve communities across both states, boosting regional connectivity, trade, and economic development. However, public opinion remains divided on the ideal site. While some advocate for Subani’s strategic border location, others call for a more centralised site within Ganjam district for greater accessibility.

Local resident P.K. Pattnaik proposed alternate locations, including 500 acres near Laxmipur mouza and 500–600 acres near Regdi junction, both considered suitable for the project.

“There is no development without an airport. The government must act decisively and begin work to assure Ganjam residents that the airport will be built at any cost,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Rengeilunda airstrip, which briefly operated under the UDAN scheme in 2024 with a 17-seater aircraft, remains non-operational due to runway limitations. Currently spanning 27 acres, the facility requires an additional 56 acres—including 40 acres of government land and 16 acres from private owners—for full functionality.

Authorities are now prioritising the airstrip’s runway extension, underground cabling, and the development of basic passenger facilities, with the Southern Revenue Commissioner confirming efforts to make the airstrip operational by January.