Sagar Watch News/ A significant step has been taken when senior aviation experts not only held a detailed review meeting with various departments but also conducted a technical field inspection of the Dhana airstrip to assess its future potential.
The meeting was attended by Additional Collector Shri Avinash Rawat, aviation expert Shri Manish Sinha, Ernst & Young Director Shri Anshuman Shrivastava, Shri Anubhav Arora, Shri Pallav Goyal, Shri R. Saxena, SDM Shri Aman Mishra, senior district officials, and leading industrialists.
Focus on Passenger and Cargo Potential
Preparations for expanding air services in Sagar district have formally begun. During the meeting, experts evaluated passenger traffic (number of people likely to use flights) and cargo traffic (transport of goods by air)—both essential for sustainable aviation operations.
Officials from BPCL, Industries Department, Agriculture, Railways, Bus and Truck Associations, Commerce & Industry bodies, Dr Harisingh Gour Central University, RTO, PWD, Bundelkhand Medical College, District Hospital, and other institutions shared inputs on future demand.
Runway Expansion Plan Explained Simply
Aviation expert Shri Manish Sinha informed that the existing 992-metre runway at Dhana will be extended to 1,800 metres.
Runway: The strip on which aircraft take off and land
Why 1,800 metres matters: It allows 70-seater commercial aircraft to operate safely
Once completed, regular air services will become possible for Sagar and nearby districts.
Next Steps in the Aviation Process
Shri Sinha explained that:
A detailed draft proposal covering all technical and commercial aspects will be prepared
An air survey (technical study from the air to assess feasibility) will follow
After approvals, land acquisition and construction work will begin.
Recognising that strong aviation connectivity is vital for the economic, industrial and tourism development of the Bundelkhand region, the Sagar district administration has initiated concrete steps towards expanding air services in the district.
Strong Economic Base Driving Air Connectivity
The aviation experts noted that Sagar’s rapid industrial and institutional growth strengthens the case for an airport. Recently, during the Industrial Conclave led by Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav, MoUs worth ₹23,000 crore were signed, including projects such as:
New industrial units
Central University, private universities, and medical colleges
These developments significantly increase both business travel and air cargo demand.
Project Cost and Timeline
It was informed that developing a 1,800-metre runway airport terminal would require an estimated ₹400 crore investment. Once approvals are granted, the district administration will promptly initiate land acquisition and allied works.
Additional Collector Shri Avinash Rawat assured that all requirements sought by the aviation department are being actively pursued, and such coordination meetings will continue regularly.
With this initiative, Sagar is positioning itself as a key aviation and economic hub in the Bundelkhand region.
Key Points
Aviation experts held a high-level meeting with district officials and industry representatives
Detailed on-site study conducted at Dhana airstrip
Proposal to expand the runway from 992 metres to 1,800 metres
70-seater aircraft operations to become feasible
The estimated project cost is around ₹400 crore
Strong cargo and passenger traffic potential identified
