Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Say inaugurated the Raipur-Ambikapur-Bilaspur air service at Swami Vivekananda Airport today.
Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Say said on this occasion that another historic step has been taken today towards the development of Chhattisgarh. The launch of the Raipur-Ambikapur-Bilaspur air service symbolizes the expansion of our regional connectivity. The initial fare for this service is only ₹999, which ensures that the common people can also benefit from air travel.
He said that this is a big example of the change that has come in the country under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji. He had said that even someone wearing slippers will ride an airplane, and today that dream is being realized. Air connectivity to remote areas like Sarguja and Bastar will not only provide facilities to the citizens but will also increase tourism and economic activities in these areas. The state government has developed Ambikapur airport at a cost of ₹80 crore.
Maa Mahamaya Airport, Ambikapur has received a three C VFR category license. This airport is suitable for the operation of 72-seater ATR-72 aircraft.
Chief Minister Shri Say said that work is also underway on a plan to connect Ambikapur with Varanasi, Prayagraj, Lucknow, Delhi, and Kolkata. Chhattisgarh has immense natural beauty, historical heritage, and eco-tourism potential. Places like Guru Ghasidas Tiger Reserve, Ramgarh hills, and Chitrakot waterfall, known as the Niagara of Asia, will now be easily accessible to tourists from India and abroad. Along with this, the expansion of air connectivity will also improve the investment environment. Our government has given special encouragement to enterprises like homestays and resorts in the new industrial policy, creating huge employment opportunities for local youth. We are trying to take Chhattisgarh to new heights in the aviation sector in the next four years.
Chief Minister Shri Say said that the new year is coming, and I urge all of you to take advantage of this new air service and enjoy the natural beauty of Sarguja. Fly Big Charter Company will provide services to these cities through 19-seater Twin Otter aircraft.
The aircraft takeoff was given a water salute. MP Shri Chintamani Maharaj, along with his wife, were the first passengers of the air service that commenced today. Chief Minister Shri Say gave them their boarding passes, saying, “You have made history today. You are the first passengers on this route; my best wishes to you.” MLA Shri Rajesh Agrawal, Shri Prabodh Minj, Shri Ramkumar Toppo, Chief Minister’s Secretary Shri Basavaraju, Director Aviation Department Shri Sanjeev Jha, and Fly Big Company CMD Shri Sanjay Mandviya were present on this occasion.