Jharsuguda, Oct 15: The Veer Surendra Sai (VSS) Airport in Jharsuguda, Odisha, is set for a major expansion, with the Centre sanctioning ₹2,100 crore for its proposed upgradation under a mega international airport development scheme.

The expansion plan includes extending the existing runway from 2,391 metres to 3,600 metres to improve the airport's operational capacity.

A second terminal and a new administrative complex are also planned. The project will further include a parallel taxi track, additional parking bays and apron facilities, approach lighting, and an advanced navigation system.

Bargarh MP Pradeep Purohit said the funds had been sanctioned and that the Odisha government was working on the required land acquisition for the expansion. The project funds will be utilised after the land acquisition process is completed.

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The VSS Airport currently handles around 1,000 passengers daily and connects Jharsuguda with major cities, including Delhi, Kolkata, Bengaluru and Bhubaneswar.

The airport began operations in September 2018 and was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It was developed at a cost of ₹210 crore, including a contribution of ₹75 crore from the Odisha government.

The proposed expansion is expected to strengthen regional air connectivity and improve airport infrastructure in western Odisha