Jeypore, Nov 12 (UDN): The proposed expansion of Jeypore Airport in Odisha's Koraput district has raised hopes of improved air connectivity across southern Odisha, but for residents of three nearby villages, the development plan has brought uncertainty over their homes, land and livelihoods.
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Public hearings on the proposed land acquisition have been conducted in Souraguda, Ekamba and Bankabija villages. While the airport upgrade is expected to improve regional connectivity and support economic activities, affected families are seeking clear assurances on compensation, rehabilitation and their future.
The expansion proposal involves acquiring approximately 244 acres of additional land across the three villages. More than 70 houses and several community properties are expected to be affected, potentially impacting hundreds of residents.
Runway expansion to enable larger aircraft
Established in 1962, Jeypore airstrip saw flight services resume in 2022 under the Centre's UDAN regional connectivity scheme.
The latest proposal seeks to upgrade the airport from Category 2B to Category 3C and extend its existing runway from 1,200 metres to 2,700 metres. The longer runway is expected to make the facility suitable for larger aircraft, including the ATR-72.
The project is being viewed as an important step towards strengthening air connectivity in southern Odisha, with potential benefits for trade, tourism and access to healthcare services.
However, the proposed acquisition has placed residents of the three villages at the centre of a difficult development debate.
Compensation and rehabilitation dominate villagers' concerns
For many affected households, the land proposed for acquisition is not merely a property asset but the foundation of their livelihood and family security.
During the public consultations, residents raised questions about land valuation, compensation for houses and arrangements for families who may lose their homes or agricultural land.
The district administration has outlined provisions for assessing land values, compensating affected households and rehabilitating landless families. A social and economic impact assessment is also being undertaken to examine the consequences of the proposed acquisition.
Despite these measures, villagers remain concerned that monetary compensation may not adequately cover the cost of rebuilding homes, purchasing alternative land or replacing income from agricultural activities.
Residents seek fair compensation and alternative land
An elderly resident, Pramod Tiwari, told OTV that losing his home could leave his family facing serious hardship. He urged the authorities to prepare a clear rehabilitation plan, explain the proposal to affected households and hold individual consultations before proceeding.
Another resident, Pabitra Pradhan, said he had borrowed money to construct his house and invested around ₹50 lakh in it. He questioned whether the compensation would reflect the actual value of the property and said alternative land should also be considered.
He pointed out that purchasing another private plot could cost around ₹40 lakh, raising concerns about whether the compensation offered would be sufficient to secure a replacement property.
Development and displacement remain key issues
The proposed airport upgrade could improve connectivity for Koraput and neighbouring parts of southern Odisha. Better air links may also support business activity, tourism and access to essential services.
But the project's wider benefits will need to be balanced against the concerns of families facing displacement. The adequacy of compensation, availability of alternative housing and land, and protection of livelihoods are likely to remain central issues as the acquisition process moves forward.
For residents of Souraguda, Ekamba and Bankabija, the key question is whether the promise of better connectivity will also come with a secure and fair future for those whose land is required for the project.