Madhya Pradesh’s 10th Airport Taking Shape at Datana-Matana in Ujjain Ahead of Simhastha 2028
Infrastructure development in Ujjain is being accorded priority in preparation for Simhastha-2028. To facilitate the smooth movement of devotees, tourists and other travellers arriving from across India and abroad, the Datana-Matana airstrip is being developed into an airport. It will be the 10th airport in Madhya Pradesh. The target is to complete its construction before Simhastha-2028. The airstrip is located on Dewas Road (MP State Highway 18) in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, roughly 15 kilometres from the city centre
Development Work Under RCS-UDAN 5.2 Scheme
The Datana-Matana airstrip is being developed under the Central Government’s RCS-UDAN 5.2 scheme. An MoU for the project has already been signed between the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and the State Government. Around 120 acres of government land has also been transferred to the AAI for development of the airport.
Operations to Begin with 1,800-Metre Runway, Provision for Expansion up to 2,700 Metres
The existing airstrip at Datana-Matana is being developed with a 1,800-metre runway. Keeping future requirements in view, there is a provision to extend the runway to 2,700 metres. This will enhance the possibilities of expanding air services to Ujjain and reduce travel time for passengers arriving from different regions.
Important Link in Preparations for Simhastha-2028
Simhastha-2028 will be one of the largest religious gatherings in the country and the world, with a large number of devotees and tourists expected to visit Ujjain. In this context, the development of the Datana-Matana Airport is an important infrastructural component of preparations for Simhastha. The airport will make air connectivity to Ujjain more convenient, providing an additional and comfortable travel option for visitors during the mega event.
Religious Tourism and Local Economy to Get a Boost
Ujjain, the city of Baba Mahakal, is among the country’s prominent religious and tourism destinations. The development of the airport will facilitate year-round travel for devotees and tourists visiting Ujjain from different parts of the country. Along with promoting religious tourism, it is also expected to strengthen economic activity in trade, local transportation, hotels, food services and other allied sectors.
Air Infrastructure Network Expanding Continuously in Madhya Pradesh
Madhya Pradesh is continuously expanding its air infrastructure. During 2023-24, five major airports were operational in the state, including Indore, Bhopal, Jabalpur, Gwalior and Khajuraho. With the addition of Rewa, Datia and Satna in 2024-25, the number increased to eight. Subsequently, the process for developing a new airport at Shivpuri has progressed, and upon completion of the Datana-Matana Airport, Madhya Pradesh will have its 10th airport.
The Central Government has also approved the development of five new airports in Madhya Pradesh. The large-scale proposed works for expanding air infrastructure in the state will pave the way for better air connectivity to various regions in the coming years.