Smart city without air connectivity; Flight suspension to Rourkela triggers outcry among locals

Flights to Rourkela have remained suspended for the past two months. While air services had been launched during the 2023 Hockey World Cup, operations have now come to a halt, leaving residents facing numerous difficulties.

Many have demanded immediate intervention of the Odisha government to ensure uninterrupted services. As resentment grows, BJP MLA Durga Charan Tanti has assured that flight services will soon be restored to normal.

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Public Protests And Criticism

Senior labour leader Bishnu Mohanty criticised the situation and said, “It is an extreme negligence towards Rourkela. We held many protests over this, and even the residents of Rourkela demand the same. The State and Central government are not taking necessary steps to restore the flight services to Rourkela.”

Smart City Without Air Services

The Central Government granted Smart City status to Rourkela, which is home to two universities, including NIT Rourkela, where students from across India and abroad pursue their studies. The city also houses the BPUT campus, several industries, and national-level facilities such as the Birsa Munda International Hockey Stadium and the Athletics Stadium. Despite this infrastructure, the absence of air connectivity has led to mounting dissatisfaction among residents.

Prof. K. Umamaheshwar Rao, Director of NIT Rourkela, remarked, “We would be very happy, along with the local residents, over the flight connection to Rourkela. This would connect us internationally as people would be able to take direct flights from Bhubaneswar to Rourkela.”

Government Assurance On Resumption

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Raghunathpalli MLA Durga Charan Tanti also expressed optimism about an early resolution. He said, “No, the flight services won’t stop entirely. I’m in regular touch with the concerned people regarding this matter. I even met Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena in Delhi and discussed the matter with him. I am hoping that the flight services will be resumed soon.”