BETTIAH, Jan. 12 -- The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has set the ball rolling to upgrade the existing airstrip into a full-fledged airport at Valmikinagar in Bihar's West Champaran district. The agency has already prepared a detailed master plan for the project, while officials in Bagaha-II have sought approval to acquire 12 acres of land required for the expansion.

Speaking to Hindustan Times over phone from Gorakhpur, RK Parashar, deputy general manager (civil), AAI Gorakhpur, said that the AAI has generated a R-2B code for the proposed Valmikinagar airport, marking an important procedural milestone. He added that several preparatory works, including drawings for the terminal building, have already been initiated as part of the up...