Patna, May 6 (IANS) Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary on Wednesday announced a major infrastructure initiative for the state, revealing that a tender has been issued for the redevelopment of Raxaul Airport.

Sharing the update on social media platform X, the Chief Minister said the tender pertains to engineering consultancy services for the development of key airside infrastructure, including the runway, apron and taxiway.

He also expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for support to the project.

The redevelopment of Raxaul Airport is being seen as a significant step towards strengthening connectivity in Bihar’s border regions, particularly along the India-Nepal corridor.

Once completed, the project is expected to make air travel more accessible for residents of the Champaran region and provide a boost to trade, tourism and the local economy.

The Chief Minister said the initiative reflects the commitment of the “double-engine government” towards accelerating development in the state and enhancing infrastructure capabilities.

The project holds particular importance for districts such as East Champaran, West Champaran, Sitamarhi and Sheohar, whose residents currently depend on distant airports for air travel.

At present, many passengers from these areas travel to Darbhanga to access flights to major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata.

Currently, Bihar has operational airports in Patna, Gaya, Darbhanga and Purnea.

In addition, the Central government has approved Greenfield airport projects in Saran, Bhagalpur and Muzaffarpur.

An airport is also coming up at Bihta on the outskirts of Patna. Construction work on the project is currently underway.

Officials believe that the Raxaul Airport project will significantly enhance regional connectivity and contribute to Bihar’s broader economic growth trajectory.

At present, Raxaul is connected through rail and road networks, and air connectivity is expected to provide a major boost to industrial activity, tourism and overall economic growth in the region.

The town is located near the Valmiki Tiger Reserve (VTR), the state’s only tiger reserve.

Wildlife enthusiasts are expected to benefit from easier access to the region once air connectivity is established.

–IANS

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