Bhubaneswar, Dec. 19 -- Discontent has surfaced in Rourkela over the sharp decline in air connectivity, with residents and several organisations questioning the absence of sustained aviation services in the industrial city. Despite hosting a world-class hockey stadium, premier institutions such as NIT and BPUT, and major industrial units, Rourkela has remained without regular commercial flight operations for nearly six months. At present, only a nine-seater aircraft is operating from the city.

Several organisations have warned of launching an agitation from January 1 if the issue is not addressed. Responding to the concerns, Commerce and Transport Department Principal Secretary Usha Padhee said steps would be taken soon to improve air co...