MP pushes for Malda airport, writes to civil aviation minister

The proposed airport would serve as catalyst for trade, tourism, and regional development, said MP Murmu

- MANAS R BANNERJEE

The long-standing demand for air connectivity in Malda district has gained fresh momentum with Malda Uttar MP Khagen Murmu formally requesting the Centre to initiate steps for setting up a full-fledged airport in the region. In a letter dated 26 June addressed to civil aviation minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, Murmu highlighted Malda's strategic location, its economic potential, and the urgent need to bring the district under the national aviation map.

Murmu, who also serves on the parliamentary standing committee on railways, stressed that despite being a sensitive international border district—sharing a 165-kilometre stretch with Bangladesh—Malda continues to remain isolated from the air network. The nearest functional airports are in Bagdogra, nearly 240 km away, and Kolkata, about 325 km from the district headquarters in English Bazaar.

He argued that the absence of air connectivity adversely affects emergency medical services, border area surveillance, trade logistics, and investment opportunities. The MP also cited the importance of the district in terms of national security, especially for rapid deployment of personnel during emergencies and border-related contingencies.