The Shree Jagannath International Airport, just 5 km from the temple, will occupy 471 hectares including forest land. Despite the Wildlife Institute of India recommending rejection; citing risks to Chilika’s birds and Olive Ridleys; the project moved forward with 33 conditions, including compensatory afforestation. Why? Because Bhubaneswar’s airport is maxed out. The big irony? One of India’s holiest towns may soon be surrounded by runways instead of serenity. This isn’t just about tourism; it’s about choosing between progress and preservation. And the decision was made quieter than most expected.