Ujjain is set to witness a significant aviation milestone as the proposed airport project prepares for phased operations, with the first phase expected to become functional by the upcoming Simhastha festival. The Madhya Pradesh government and the Airport Authority of India (AAI) are poised to sign a short agreement within the next two weeks, paving the way for construction and operational rollout.
The airport will mirror the development model of Rewa and Datia airports. In its initial phase, a 2,600-metre runway will accommodate 72-seater regional aircraft, featuring essential aviation facilities including a night landing system and a passenger terminal. The second phase plans an expansion to a 4,000-metre runway, enabling operations for larger commercial jets and potential international connectivity, similar to Indore and Bhopal airports. Officials emphasise that this phased approach balances early operational readiness with long-term scalability. The project’s land acquisition poses a strategic challenge. Currently, the site has 100 acres of government-owned land. Officials indicate that an additional 150 acres of private land will need to be identified and acquired to meet the total 250-acre requirement for full-scale development. The Ujjain Collector has been assigned to coordinate with private landowners to secure the necessary area, highlighting the importance of careful urban planning to minimise disruption and ensure equitable land use.
Experts note that Ujjain airport will strengthen regional connectivity and support sustainable urban mobility by providing an alternative to road transport, reducing congestion, and promoting low-emission air travel. “Developing the airport in phases ensures operational efficiency while integrating eco-friendly infrastructure,” said an aviation planning official. The airport is expected to benefit tourism, particularly for the Mahakal temple precinct, while generating opportunities for local employment and allied services. The airport’s strategic timing ahead of Simhastha is designed to accommodate the surge of pilgrims and enhance accessibility for visitors. With modern amenities and phased runway expansion, the project aligns with Madhya Pradesh’s broader vision of creating equitable, environmentally responsible transport infrastructure.
AAI officials have indicated that once the short agreement is signed, preparatory groundwork including land surveys, environmental assessments, and preliminary construction will commence immediately. Aviation experts highlight that phased development mitigates risk, ensures safety compliance, and facilitates future technological upgrades, including advanced navigation and energy-efficient facilities. By becoming the ninth operational airport in Madhya Pradesh, Ujjain will not only ease travel for pilgrims but also integrate the city into national and regional air networks. Authorities insist that careful planning and adherence to sustainable practices will ensure the airport contributes to a low-carbon, modern aviation ecosystem.
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