The Maharashtra government has formally launched the Rs 640 crore expansion of Ojhar Airport, marking a major step in strengthening Nashik’s transport infrastructure ahead of the Simhastha Kumbh Mela in 2027. The project is expected to play a central role in managing the massive influx of pilgrims while also supporting the district’s long-term economic and industrial growth.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis laid the foundation stone for the expansion on Sunday, positioning the airport upgrade as a key pillar of Nashik’s broader development strategy. The state government has earmarked Rs 640 crore for the project, which is aimed at improving passenger capacity, cargo handling, and overall connectivity.
Nashik is expected to witness an unprecedented surge in visitors during the Simhastha Kumbh Mela, with official estimates projecting an eight- to tenfold increase in footfall. The Ojhar Airport expansion has been planned to ease pressure on road and rail networks by providing faster and more efficient air connectivity for pilgrims and tourists.
Officials say the upgraded airport will help decentralise travel flows during the Kumbh period, reducing congestion in the city and improving crowd management. Enhanced aviation infrastructure is also expected to strengthen emergency response and administrative coordination during the mega religious event.
Addressing the gathering at the foundation stone ceremony, Chief Minister Fadnavis underlined the evolving role of air travel in India’s development journey. He said aviation is no longer seen as a luxury, but as an essential component of economic growth and regional connectivity.
According to the Chief Minister, the expansion of Ojhar Airport will act as a catalyst for Nashik’s overall development, improving access for investors, businesses, and visitors. He described the project as a turning point that would help the city integrate more closely with national and global markets.
Beyond its role in handling Kumbh-related travel, the expanded airport is expected to significantly benefit Nashik’s growing industrial and export ecosystem. The district has emerged as a major centre for manufacturing, defence-related activities, and agro-based industries.
Fadnavis highlighted Nashik’s strength in horticulture and vegetable production, noting that improved cargo facilities at the airport would allow farmers and exporters to access international markets more efficiently. Faster air freight connectivity is expected to reduce wastage of perishable produce and improve price realisation for growers.
Referring to recent international trade developments, the Chief Minister said India’s expanding access to markets in the European Union and the United States would create fresh opportunities for export-oriented districts like Nashik. He noted that trade agreements and easing of restrictions would help increase outbound shipments from the region.
According to the state government, Nashik’s export volumes are expected to rise as improved airport infrastructure aligns with growing global demand for Indian agricultural and industrial products.
The Ojhar region has also gained prominence due to defence and aerospace manufacturing activities. The Chief Minister pointed to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited’s expanding operations in the area, which have contributed to skill development and employment generation.
He also referred to recent investment commitments secured at the World Economic Forum meeting in Davos. Of the Rs 55,000 crore in investments pledged for north Maharashtra, Rs 13,000 crore has been allocated specifically for Nashik, reinforcing the city’s position as a key growth hub.
The airport expansion is part of a much larger infrastructure drive to prepare Nashik for the Simhastha Kumbh Mela in 2027. According to the state government, development works worth nearly Rs 30,000 crore are currently underway across the city.
These projects include river rejuvenation initiatives, road widening and upgrades, improved public transport systems, and urban infrastructure improvements aimed at enhancing the overall experience for residents and visitors alike.
Summing up the significance of the project, Chief Minister Fadnavis said the foundation stone ceremony marked more than the start of an airport expansion. He described it as a launchpad for Nashik’s next phase of development.
He said that just as aircraft would take off from the upgraded Ojhar Airport, Nashik’s economic and infrastructure growth would also gain momentum from the project. With the Simhastha Kumbh Mela approaching, the airport expansion is expected to play a defining role in shaping the city’s readiness and future trajectory.
