In a rare show of political unity, Odisha’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) have come together to demand the construction of an international airport in Puri, despite objections from the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).
Environmental Hurdles Stall Airport Project
The MoEFCC recently stalled the process of forest land acquisition for the proposed Puri International Airport, citing serious environmental concerns. The ministry pointed to potential threats to migratory birds and the endangered Olive Ridley turtles that nest along Puri’s coastline. It stated that the proposed sites could interfere with the safe flight paths of birds and the nesting grounds of turtles, making them unsuitable for airport development.
BJD’s Divya Shankar Mishra Slams Central Obstruction
Senior BJD leader and MLA Divya Shankar Mishra criticized the central government’s stance, calling the airport a critical need for Odisha and especially for Puri. “We will force the Centre to take a decision. There is no alternative. The airport is essential for the development of Jagannath culture and religious tourism,” Mishra said.
He rejected the environmental objections, citing global examples of coastal and sea-based airports that have functioned without harming local ecology. “It is possible to protect migratory birds and Olive Ridley turtles while proceeding with airport construction,” he asserted.
Mishra warned of political consequences if the Centre continued to ignore Puri’s demand. “If the central government does not promote Jagannath culture and fails to build the airport, there will be a dire political cost. The people of Puri will not tolerate this neglect,” he added.
BJP’s Gobind Das Echoes Sentiment, Backs Airport Push
Supporting the demand, BJP’s Deputy Chief Whip in the state assembly, Gobind Das, said the ruling party stands in solidarity with the people of Puri. “Puri is the abode of Lord Jagannath, worshipped by 4.5 crore Odias. We will do everything necessary to realize this airport project,” Das said.
He reiterated that both the state and central governments—referred to as the “double-engine government”—are working under the NDA umbrella and committed to the aspirations of the people. “We are open to discussions with central officials to sort out any technical or environmental issues. The construction may take time, but it will be done,” he affirmed.
MoEFCC Maintains Environmental Stand
The MoEFCC, however, remains firm in its position, emphasizing that airport construction should not come at the cost of biodiversity. “The airport should be located away from areas critical to wildlife. The current proposed sites may not be appropriate for airport land use,” the ministry stated.
It advised that any development must ensure safe migratory flyways and the continued protection of the Olive Ridley nesting grounds on the coast.
Alternate Sites Under Review, Says State
Responding to these concerns, Mishra said the state government has already commissioned environmental studies to identify alternate locations that would not affect sensitive coastal ecosystems. He maintained that modern aircraft operations can be adjusted to avoid harming wildlife and biodiversity.
“There are many international airports operating along coastal zones in India, including Mumbai and Chennai. Similar models can be explored for Puri,” he said.
Airport Demand Gains Momentum
With both BJP and BJD voicing strong support for the project, the demand for a Puri international airport is gathering political momentum. While environmental challenges remain, the joint pressure from Odisha’s two main parties could force the Centre to revisit its position—or at least find a middle path balancing development and ecology.
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