Bhubaneswar, May 1 (UNI) Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Thursday held discussions on establishing a world-class aviation infrastructure including airports, helipads, and drone hubs in Odisha.

He emphasised the need to enhance the efficiency of the existing airports in the state and to modernise their operations.

The Chief Minister directed departmental officials to improve infrastructure at public airports, expand flight connectivity, and boost the overall efficiency of aviation services.

To strengthen the state's aviation infrastructure, Majhi reviewed "Aviation and Network Construction Management" at Lok Seva Bhavan.

The meeting focused on the development of the Shri Jagannath International Airport (SJIA) in Puri and the upgradation of Rourkela Airport, along with plans for a greenfield airport at Paradip.

The discussions also covered the development of key regional airports such as Jaipur, Dand Bose, Rangeilunda, Gautama, Satibhata, Raisuan, Thushara, Jamadarpali, Malkangiri, Amarda Road and Utkela to improve regional connectivity.

The construction of heliports in 15 districts and the development of the Biju Patnaik Aviation Centre (BPAC) at the airstrip in Birashola, Dhenkanal, were also reviewed.

The Works Department has been designated as the nodal agency to expedite the development initiatives.

Additionally, the restructuring of the Directorate of Civil Aviation was discussed, with proposals for modern infrastructure and improved human resources to support the growing aviation sector in the state. UNI DP SSP