CM Suvendu blames former TMC govt for loss of European flight links

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari criticized the previous Trinamool Congress (TMC) administration for the collapse of direct air connectivity between Kolkata and European destinations. Speaking after flagging off 50 AC buses in Kolkata, Adhikari stated that while the city previously enjoyed direct flights to several European nations, most of these services, including flights to London, were discontinued under the prior government's tenure.

The Chief Minister alleged that the previous government failed to strengthen the aviation sector and neglected proposals for expanding airport infrastructure. He highlighted that when the central aviation ministry requested land to construct a second airport near Kolkata, the former administration refused to acquire land in the Bhangar area, demonstrating a lack of seriousness toward improving international connectivity.

Adhikari emphasized that boosting transport and aviation infrastructure is crucial for economic revival and attracting investment. Alongside criticizing past aviation policies and the state's ₹8 lakh crore debt burden, he outlined plans to modernize Bengal's transport network through a new greenfield airport in Kalyani, a Kolkata Water Metro, and expanded electric bus services in coordination with the Centre.