The Andhra Pradesh government has given its official nod to a significant new infrastructure project, approving the development of a greenfield airport at Dagadarthi in Nellore district. This cabinet decision marks a pivotal step in enhancing the state's aviation network and industrial logistics framework.
Strategic Location and Connectivity Advantages
Positioned for maximum impact, the proposed Dagadarthi greenfield airport boasts a highly strategic location. It is set to offer seamless connectivity to crucial National Highway corridors and provide vital links to two major ports: Krishnapatnam and Ramayapatnam. Furthermore, its proximity to key industrial clusters like KRIS City and IFFCO SEZs is expected to transform it into a central hub for manufacturing, exports, and agri-logistics in southern Andhra Pradesh.
Project Scale and Development Phases
The ambitious project has already secured an in-principle clearance from the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation. The state has now issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) to attract private players for its development, operation, and maintenance under a long-term concession model.
Planned to be built on a vast area of 1,332.80 acres, the airport will be developed in multiple phases. The initial Phase I is designed to handle 1.4 million passengers annually. The master plan includes a scalable design, allowing capacity to be expanded significantly to accommodate up to 15 million passengers per year in the long run. The blueprint also incorporates provisions for a future cargo facility, aimed at bolstering industrial output and port-led trade in the region.
Boosting Regional Economy and Employment
Officials highlight that the Dagadarthi airport is more than just a travel hub; it is envisioned as a catalyst for comprehensive regional development. By integrating air connectivity with existing ports, highways, and industrial zones, the project aims to reduce logistics costs, attract fresh investments, and generate substantial employment. Job creation is anticipated across the construction, aviation, and various allied sectors, giving a major thrust to the local economy.
With this approval, Dagadarthi is poised to become Andhra Pradesh's eighth operational airport, solidifying the state's strategy to build a robust multimodal logistics and industrial network. The state government reaffirms that this move is part of its continued focus on accelerating infrastructure development to fuel long-term economic growth and improve connectivity.
