Bihar Cabinet Approves Sonepur International Airport Project

The Bihar state cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, has approved the construction of a new international airport at Sonepur in Saran district. The proposed airport will feature a 4,200-metre runway, making it capable of handling wide-body aircraft, including the Airbus A380. The project is targeted for completion by 2030 and is expected to significantly enhance air connectivity in north Bihar.

Spread across 4,228 acres between Hajipur and Dumaria, the airport is set to become the largest in the state and among the biggest in the country in terms of land area.

Infrastructure and Technical Specifications

The 4.2-kilometre-long runway will allow smooth landing and take-off of large aircraft. Officials indicated that the airport’s design will support both passenger and cargo operations at an international scale.

The Union civil aviation ministry had earlier granted site clearance, followed by in-principle approval from the Centre. The proposal was also referenced in the Union Budget, reflecting its national-level significance.

The state government has initiated land acquisition and allocated ₹1,302 crore for this purpose.

Boost to Regional Connectivity

The Sonepur airport is being viewed as a transformative infrastructure project for Saran and adjoining districts. It is expected to ease pressure on existing airports and stimulate economic activity in north Bihar.

Currently, Bihar has operational airports at Jayprakash Narayan International Airport in Patna, along with facilities in Gaya, Darbhanga and Purnia. Another major airport is under development at Sultanganj in Bhagalpur district. Plans are also underway to upgrade Darbhanga airport to international status.

Wider Cabinet Decisions

In the same meeting, the cabinet approved 35 proposals across various departments. Among them was a sanction of ₹70 crore for anti-erosion work along an embankment between Ismailpur and Bindtoli in Bhagalpur district.

The embankment had breached over an 80-metre stretch during last year’s floods, causing extensive inundation. The sanctioned funds aim to strengthen flood protection measures in vulnerable areas.

Important Facts for Exams

• A 4,200-metre runway can handle wide-body aircraft such as the Airbus A380.
• Site clearance for airports is granted by the Union civil aviation ministry.
• Land acquisition for infrastructure projects is governed by the 2013 Land Acquisition Act.
• Flood-control embankments are key structural measures in riverine states like Bihar.

Strategic Significance for North Bihar

The proposed international airport at Sonepur is expected to strengthen trade, tourism and regional integration. With improved air connectivity and modern infrastructure, the project aims to position north Bihar as a significant aviation and economic hub by the end of the decade.