The Maharashtra government has halted plans for the initially proposed Gadchiroli airport site following a recent Obstacle Limitation Survey (OLS) that flagged several flight-path obstructions. Structures including an educational building, high-tension power lines, and a power-plant chimney were identified as impediments, and mitigation work would have cost over ₹150 crore. In response, authorities from the Maharashtra Airport Development Company (MADC) and state leadership, including Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, have directed a shift in focus toward identifying and surveying a new, less encumbered location. A follow-up pre-feasibility study and fresh OLS at the alternate site are underway.
The pause is particularly significant given the region’s transformation into a future steel-industrial hub. Notable projects include a proposed mega steel plant by Jindal Group, a 4‑MT pellet facility by Lloyds Metals & Energy, and a planned integrated complex from Surjagad Ispat. These developments underscore the critical need for enhanced air connectivity to effectively service supply chains, business travel, and logistics, which would reduce reliance on Nagpur for access.
Gadchiroli’s industrial drive is reinforced by recent regulatory support: Lloyds received clearance from the Expert Appraisal Committee to expand its Surjagarh iron‑ore capacity from 10 MTPA to 26 MTPA, under stringent environmental conditions. Similarly, Surjagad Ispat’s planned ₹10,000 crore steel plant has secured enhanced state incentives (150 per cent SGST refund), signaling confidence in the area’s steel potential.Â
Moving the airport site, while delaying immediate progress, aims to ensure cost-effectiveness and operational safety. With a 2,500 m runway, the finalized airport would enable direct Boeing/Airbus flights—essential for transporting executives and facilitating equipment movement. Maharashtra aims to balance industrial expansion with infrastructure planning to foster Gadchiroli’s rise as the next major steel city.
