A new airport in Srikakulam, a long-awaited project that could reshape travel in the region, has taken a significant step forward with the recent land assessments conducted by the Airport Authority of India (AAI). This initiative, initially proposed by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu during his recent visit to the district, is poised to bring greater connectivity to the region.
A team from AAI, led by Deputy General Manager Parvinder, conducted a comprehensive assessment of land parcels in five villages across Mandasa and Vajrapukotturu mandals. The assessment team was joined by key district officials, including Palasa RDO Venkatesh and tahsildars Hymavathi and Sitarramaiah, who guided the team through potential sites that could serve as the foundation for the airport’s construction. The villages under scrutiny included Ganguvada, Betalapuram, Lakshmipuram, and Bidimi in Mandasa, and Anakapalli and Onkuru in Vajrapukotturu. The team’s visit focused on evaluating the suitability of the land based on various factors, including natural resources, government-owned plots, residential zones, and the local population density. Furthermore, the delegation engaged with local authorities to discuss crucial logistical aspects such as water resources, groundwater availability, and proximity to mining areas—all essential considerations for airport construction.
Sources close to the project indicate that both Mandasa and Vajrapukotturu are being considered the most viable locations for the new airport, given the available land and infrastructural considerations. This airport, if constructed, is expected to significantly enhance connectivity for residents and businesses in the region, facilitating economic growth and offering a much-needed transport hub for the state. With the project in its early stages, local authorities are optimistic about its potential. The construction of a new airport in Srikakulam could be a game-changer, providing both domestic and international connectivity to a region that has, until now, remained somewhat isolated in terms of direct air travel access.
