The non-resident Odias (NRO) living in the UAE, who spearheaded an international movement to ensure direct air connectivity to the newly established
Veer Surendra Sai Airport in Jharsuguda, flew in a first-ever Delhi-Jharsuguda direct flight, which touched down at Jharsuguda on Sunday.
Manas Panda and Priyadarshee Panigrahi, both based at Dubai, flew down from Dubai to board the flight and be a part of the momentous occasion.
They were invited to light the inaugural lamp at the Terminal 2 building of Delhi airport.
They also had the honor of flagging off the aircraft on the tarmac for the historic flight along with Captain Yadav and other dignitaries.
The team carried special gifts for all the passengers all the way from Dubai. Passengers on board the flight appreciated the efforts of NROs in mobilizing support for starting of these flights.
According to Manas Panda, the direct links will ensure greater economic development of the region and help promote trade and tourism, its handicrafts and textiles. Also it will promote industrial growth in the region.
Panigrahi said the starting of direct flights will greatly benefit educational institutions like IIM Sambalpur, VSSUT Burla and VIMSAR
Burla and help earn better placements. Such connectivity will also be a boon for Overseas Odias originating from western part of Odisha and shall cut down travel time to their home towns drastically.