Malkangiri Airport Inaugurated Without DGCA Approval

24 Sep 2024 CW Team

In a shocking revelation, it has come to light that the Malkangiri Airport, inaugurated by the former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik in January 2024, lacked the necessary approval from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). According to an RTI query, no application for an aerodrome license was ever filed for the airport’s management.

This raises questions about whether an actual airport or just an airstrip was inaugurated on January 9, 2024. Despite the lavish announcements and advertisements surrounding the inauguration, the RTI response from DGCA has cast doubt on the legitimacy of the event.

RTI activist Pradeep Pradhan criticized the previous government, stating, "They staged this overnight drama to fool the people of Malkangiri and Koraput for votes, spending crores from the state exchequer. Now, the so-called airport is in shambles, with walls collapsed and roads washed away."

Experts highlight that DGCA approval is mandatory for airports, which must include facilities such as ticket counters and security check-ins. However, small airstrips for helicopters do not require DGCA permission, further deepening the question of whether Malkangiri's facility was ever intended to function as a full-fledged airport.

Calls are now being made for the new government to take action. "I urge the Mohan Majhi government to make Malkangiri Airport operational soon," said BJD leader Manas Madkami.

Today, the site languishes in disrepair, with reports of animals roaming freely through the lobby and runway, waterlogging issues, and structural damage caused by heavy rains. The controversy surrounding its inauguration leaves a significant blot on the previous administration’s legacy.

Resources

09 Mar 2026

Haworth India Hosts Women’s Leadership Panel Series

Haworth India marked International Women’s Day by hosting a leadership roundtable series titled ‘Give to Gain’, bringing together senior women leaders from architecture and design firms, corporates and project management consultancies. The series has been conducted in Delhi and Mumbai, with upcoming sessions scheduled in Bengaluru and Hyderabad on 27 March 2026. Structured as moderated panel discussions followed by audience interaction, the initiative examined the business impact of women’s leadership and the role of inclusive workplaces in supporting professional growth. Manish Khan..

Max Estates Secures RERA For Max One Project

Max Estates has secured RERA approval (UPRERA No.: UPRERAPRJ9759) for its Max One development around Max Towers in Sector 16B, Noida, bringing renewed progress to a project previously stalled following the insolvency of its earlier developer. Spread across around 10 acres with an estimated development potential of about 2.5 million sq ft, Max One is planned as an integrated mixed-use campus combining serviced residences, premium offices, retail spaces and a private club. The project is expected to generate total sales potential of about Rs 20 billion along with an estimated annuity rental inc..

Hindware Introduces Starc Smart Wall Mount Toilet

Hindware has introduced the Starc Smart Wall-Mount Toilet under its Hindware Italian Collection, designed to combine automation, hygiene and contemporary bathroom aesthetics. The model features automatic flushing, sensor-based seat opening and closing, and remote-controlled functions. It also includes an oscillating water spray and warm air dryer for cleaning, along with a self-cleaning nozzle designed to maintain hygiene. Additional features include adjustable heated seating, customisable water temperature and pressure settings, a foot-touch flush system and an LCD control interface. The wa..