This significant milestone marks a major step forward in enhancing air connectivity and unlocking new economic and tourism potential for the holy city of Puri. Principal Secretary Smt. Usha Padhee visited the site. After the visit, Smt Padhee reviewed the project with respect to various aspects like land acquisition, RR proposals etc, emphasising the transformative impact it will have on the region. “The Puri Airport is not just about infrastructure; it is about building a future-ready gateway that will elevate Puri’s profile on the global spiritual tourism map. With the Greenfield Airport approval, we are now poised to accelerate development with sustainability and world-class standards,” she stated. As one of India’s most revered pilgrimage destinations and part of the sacred Char Dham, Puri attracts millions of devotees and visitors annually. The new airport is expected to ease travel significantly, enabling direct access for national and international tourists, while stimulating investment and job creation in sectors such as hospitality, transport, and services. The Government of Odisha, in collaboration with the Airports Authority of India and other key stakeholders, is working diligently to ensure that the airport project is implemented efficiently, with careful attention to ecological balance, heritage preservation, and inclusive development. With the Greenfield status granted, the Puri Airport project now enters a new phase of execution, representing a visionary step towards making Odisha a global destination for spiritual and cultural tourism.