Kodagu to get an Airstrip Under UDAN Scheme, Boosting Connectivity and Tourism

The decision to develop an airstrip in Kodagu is a major boost to regional connectivity, fulfilling a long-standing demand of Coorg residents for an airport. Photo Courtesy: UDAN/Narendra Modi YouTube/The Kodagu Express

Kushalnagar/ New Delhi: Kodagu district, which has long lacked an airport facility, is set to get its first airstrip under the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) scheme. The Ministry of Civil Aviation has identified Kushalnagar as one of the five locations in Karnataka where new airstrips (mini airports) will be developed.

Responding to a question raised by former Karnataka Chief Minister and Haveri MP Basavaraj Bommai in the Lok Sabha, Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Muraleedharan Mohol confirmed that Ballari, Kolar, Kushalnagar, Raichur, and Hassan have been selected for this initiative.

In a written response, Muraleedharan Mohol stated, “The airstrips in Karnataka listed in the tentative list of unserved airstrips under UDAN Scheme document for bidding are Ballari, Kolar, Kushalnagar, Raichur, and Hassan.”

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The decision to develop an airstrip in Kodagu comes as a major boost to regional connectivity, addressing a long-standing demand of Coorg residents for an airport facility. In December 2024, the Karnataka Government had proposed airstrips in Kodagu to promote tourism, industry, and disaster management. At that time, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah reaffirmed the State Government’s commitment to infrastructure projects, including the airstrip in Kushalnagar taluk.

Reacting to this development, Mysuru MP Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Civil Aviation for including Kushalnagar in the UDAN scheme. In a statement, he said, “This initiative will significantly enhance regional connectivity, fostering economic growth and tourism in our beloved Kodagu district. As your representative, I remain committed to advocating for infrastructure projects that uplift our communities and preserve our rich heritage. Together, we are building a more connected and prosperous future.”

The development of an airstrip in Kushalnagar is expected to improve access to Madikeri and other key locations in Kodagu, benefiting the tourism sector and local businesses, according to residents.

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