By Shanta Kumar Shrestha
The proposed Nijgadh International Airport in Bara district is a “National Pride Project.” However, no tangible progress in its construction has been seen in the near future.
The present government led by the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), in its commitment paper unveiled on the eve of the March 5 elections, stated that it would “immediately move forward with the process of constructing a new international airport, either in Nijgadh or elsewhere.”
Given Nepal’s difficult terrain, it is nearly impossible to construct a multi-runway international airport anywhere other than Nijgadh. Moreover, with the Kathmandu–Tarai Fast Track already under construction, the government should not need to build an additional highway to connect the proposed airport.
For decades, Nepal has grappled with the limitations of Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA). The country’s only international gateway is overcrowded, weather-prone, and constrained by surrounding geography. In this context, the proposed Nijgadh International Airport in Madhesh Province has emerged as one of the nation’s most promising transformative projects.
Nijgadh is envisioned as one of South Asia’s largest airports, and among the largest in the world by land area. Located just 70 km south of Kathmandu, the site was selected following feasibility studies highlighting its favorable terrain, expansion potential, and proximity to the capital. Strategically positioned, the airport could tap into a new international air corridor, potentially reducing flight distances by over 210 km for routes between the West Gulf (Qatar/UAE) and East Asia (Hong Kong/Kunming). This presents an opportunity for Nepal to evolve into a transit hub, similar to Dubai, Hong Kong, and Singapore.
The airport’s viability is closely linked to the Kathmandu–Tarai Fast Track, an expressway currently under construction that features remarkable engineering, including bridges taller than the Dharahara tower. Once completed, it is expected to reduce travel time between Kathmandu and Nijgadh to about one hour.
With TIA struggling under increasing delays and limited capacity, Nijgadh Airport could generate thousands of jobs, attract investment, and boost Nepal’s tourism industry. Given its scale, it could rival regional airports and position Nepal as a significant player in global aviation.
Politically, however, Nijgadh has become a flashpoint. While successive governments have supported the project, opposition parties and civil society groups have raised concerns about transparency, feasibility, and environmental sustainability.
Nijgadh represents more than just an airport—it symbolizes Nepal’s aspirations for economic growth, tourism expansion, and global integration. Yet, it also reflects the country’s broader tension between ambition and sustainability. Supporters view it as essential for modernization, while critics warn that it could become a “white elephant,” similar to Gautam Buddha International Airport and Pokhara Regional International Airport—costly projects with limited returns. Nonetheless, given Nepal’s landlocked position, strengthening air connectivity remains a strategic necessity.
Nijgadh International Airport is more than an infrastructure project. Will it become a white elephant, or a golden goose? Will the nation prioritize rapid modernization and global connectivity? In an era of A380 ambition, can Nepal finally accommodate the world’s largest aircraft? The answers to these questions will shape not only Nepal’s aviation future but also its identity as a nation striving to balance growth with responsibility.
In conclusion, the construction of Nijgadh International Airport has the potential to be a game-changing project for Nepal and the Balen government would push forward this project with priority.
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