HYDERABAD: Adilabad is a crucial district in Telangana’s cultural and economic landscape. It is known for its lush forests, rich biodiversity, and picturesque landscapes, and if developed, it can be a key player in Telangana’s aviation sphere.
Telangana currently has only one major airport — Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) in Hyderabad. However, as the state's economy and population grows, there is a pressing need for additional air travel infrastructure. Adilabad, located in northern Telangana, emerges as a promising site for a new airport.
Adilabad is strategically located and well-connected by road and rail. Its position near the borders of Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh makes it an ideal hub for travellers from neighbouring states.
The district hosts several industries, including cotton ginning, cement manufacturing and agriculture-based businesses. These industries would greatly benefit from improved air connectivity, facilitating quicker transportation of goods and personnel.
Dinesh Matolia, the vice-president of Adilabad Chamber of Commerce, said the district is rich with cotton industries, and an airport would help the cotton business of Adilabad, Nirmal and several districts in Telangana.
“Local businesses will be developed massively because of the airport. Moreover, doctors from other parts of the country can fly in from places to perform medical treatments in not just Adilabad but other districts as well,” he added.
The weather in Adilabad is favourable for aviation as well. Unlike some other parts of Telangana, which face extreme temperatures and monsoon challenges, Adilabad enjoys relatively stable weather conditions year-round.
An expert in the aviation industry said the stable environment is essential for safe and efficient airport operations, and it reduces the risk of flight delays and cancellations due to adverse weather.
In addition to its industrial potential, Adilabad is rich in natural and cultural attractions. It is home to scenic spots like Kuntala Waterfall, the highest waterfall in Telangana, and Pochera Falls. Basara Saraswati Temple, Nirmal Fort, Pranahita Wildlife Sanctuary and many more locations are very close to Adilabad. An airport in the district would make these attractions more accessible to tourists, enhancing the region's tourism potential and generating employment opportunities.
Adilabad MLA Payal Nirmal said he recently spoke about development of airspace in Adilabad with Chief Minister Revanth Reddy. He said that the government would soon initiate the land acquisition process either through the Air Force or by the state government itself under the UDAN scheme.
