The much-anticipated new airport in Datia was virtually inaugurated today by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a move set to significantly enhance regional connectivity and spur development. Alongside Datia, a new airport in Sagar was also virtually inaugurated by the Prime Minister. Datia had witnessed extensive preparations for the grand inauguration ceremony.
The event saw the presence of several dignitaries, including Union Minister of Civil Aviation Rammohan Naidu, Minister-in-Charge Adal Singh Kansana, Bhind-Datia MP Sandhya Ray, former Home Minister Narottam Mishra, and numerous other officials.
The newly constructed Datia airport boasts a 1.81-kilometer runway and is designed to operate four days a week. Developed on 124 acres of land, its operationalization is expected to provide a significant boost to regional connectivity, leading to increased opportunities for education and employment, and rapid growth in trade, industry, and tourism. The Datia airport is equipped to handle ATR 72 aircraft, which will further promote regional connectivity, particularly enhancing access to the Sindhi community.
Addressing the gathering, Union Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu expressed profound peace, stating he felt "an amazing sense of tranquility" upon visiting the religious city of Datia. Minister-in-Charge Adal Singh Kansana likened today's inauguration to the auspicious festival of Diwali, while former Home Minister Narottam Mishra declared it a day to be written in "golden letters."
However, the airport's inauguration also saw some political jostling for credit between Narottam Mishra and MP Sandhya Ray. Reportedly, MP Sandhya Ray faced considerable difficulty gaining entry at the airport gate. When questioned by journalists about the incident, she chose to deflect the query.