Odisha Govt Targets To Complete Expansion Of Utkela Airport Runway In Kalahandi By Dec 23

Bhubaneswar: In order to hasten up its move to provide air connectivity to Kalahandi district, the Odisha government has directed the district administration to complete the expansion of the runway at Utkela airport by December 23.

Secretary (5T) to chief minister VK Pandian issued the direction during a visit to the district on Friday. On arrival, Pandian first visited the airport to inspect the undergoing development works there.

He also took stock of the progress of construction of a barrage at Sandul over Tel river and advised the officials to complete the works by March 24. On completion of the barrage, 29 villages in Narla, Karlamunda and Kesinga blocks will get irrigation facility through underground pipes.

Pandian also visited Uma Maheswar Dhabaleswar temple and interacted with the servitors and members of the temple management committee on various developmental activities. He directed the district collector to prepare a detailed project report (DPR) within 15 days.

During his visit to Kalahandi University and medical college, he met the students and the faculty to enquire about the problems and measures for development. He said smart classrooms, e-library and advanced laboratory with modern equipment will be provided to the university.

The 5T secretary also reviewed the ongoing development works of Biju Patnaik Stadium at Junagarh and the bus terminal at Bhawanipatna.

Besides, he visited the under-development community health centre at M Rampur, stadium and Mission Shakti cafe at Narla.