Gujarat’s Strategic Expansion in Greenfield Airports
The Gujarat government has begun acquiring land for two new greenfield airports at Dahod and Dwarka as part of its strategy to boost aviation in the state. This follows feasibility studies by the Airports Authority of India (AAI), which identified these locations as suitable for future airport development.
Expanding Air Connectivity
The state government, in collaboration with the Ministry of Civil Aviation and AAI, is progressing to enhance air connectivity by integrating new greenfield airports into the existing infrastructure, including expansions at Ahmedabad (AMD) and Rajkot (RAJ).
Dahod Greenfield Airport Development
Following detailed pre-feasibility studies, Dahod has been selected for a new airport to cater to industrial and regional passenger needs in eastern Gujarat. Although specific land details remain undisclosed, acquisition activities are underway. Completion of this airport aims to reduce dependence on Indore and Ahmedabad (AMD) for air travel.
Dwarka Greenfield Airport Project
A new airport will be developed near Vasai village, about 12 kilometers from Dwarka in the Devbhumi Dwarka district. Approximately 300 hectares have been allocated for this project, with 45% currently government-owned, and the rest to be acquired from private parties. This site selection follows previous challenges due to coastal and defense restrictions.
Given Dwarka’s prominence as a pilgrimage and tourism destination, the proposed airport will significantly cut down travel time from Ahmedabad and Mumbai (BOM), which currently takes between eight to seventeen hours by train. Additionally, the site offers strategic advantages for defense logistics due to its proximity to the Arabian Sea.
Future Airport Developments in Gujarat
Eleven potential sites for greenfield airports have been identified in Gujarat, with Dahod, Dwarka, Morbi, Dhordo, and Rajpipla deemed feasible by AAI. The Dholera International Airport (DIA), another greenfield initiative, is slated for completion by December 2025, positioned to serve as a vital international gateway for the Dholera Special Investment Region.
Besides these new projects, the Gujarat government is also focusing on expanding existing airports, with the proposal to extend Keshod Airport in Junagadh. Approximately 205 acres of government and private land have already been acquired and transferred to the AAI.
In the fiscal year 2024–25, this airport serviced 19,322 passengers, representing a 39% increase over the previous year, reflecting Gujarat’s vision to become a central aviation hub in western India.
Conclusion
The initiation of land acquisition for the Dahod and Dwarka airports is a pivotal step in Gujarat’s aviation development plan. Along with projects like the Dholera International Airport, these efforts are poised to improve connectivity, boost tourism, and foster regional industrial growth.
