In a significant move to bolster air connectivity across the nation, the government of India has granted ‘In-Principle’ approval for the establishment of 21 new Greenfield Airports. These airports, spread across different states, aim to enhance accessibility, promote tourism, and boost economic activities in their respective regions. Out of the 21 approved airports, 11 are already operational, while the remaining are at various stages of development.
Operational Greenfield Airports: 11 Airports Take Flight
Among the approved Greenfield Airports, 11 have already been operationalized, marking a significant milestone in India’s aviation infrastructure development. These operational airports include Durgapur in West Bengal, Shirdi in Maharashtra, Kannur in Kerala, Pakyong in Sikkim, Kalaburagi in Karnataka, Orvakal (Kurnool) in Andhra Pradesh, Sindhudurg in Maharashtra, Kushinagar in Uttar Pradesh, Itanagar in Arunachal Pradesh, Mopa in Goa, and Shivamogga in Karnataka. These airports have been contributing to regional growth and facilitating seamless travel for passengers.
Upcoming Greenfield Airports: A Vision of Connectivity
The approval of 21 new Greenfield Airports signifies the government’s commitment to promoting regional connectivity and fostering economic development. The proposed airports include Navi Mumbai, Sindhudurg, and Shirdi in Maharashtra; Dabra (Gwalior) in Madhya Pradesh; Noida (Jewar) and Kushinagar in Uttar Pradesh; Dholera and Hirasar in Gujarat; Karaikal in Puducherry; Dagadarthi, Bhogapuram, and Orvakal (Kurnool) in Andhra Pradesh; Hollongi (Itanagar) in Arunachal Pradesh; Kannur in Kerala; Kalaburagi, Vijayapura, Hassan, and Shivamogga in Karnataka; and Pakyong in Sikkim. The development of these airports will not only ease the burden on existing air hubs but also create opportunities for economic growth in their respective regions.
Tamil Nadu’s Ambitious Proposal: Greenfield Airport in Parandur
Amidst the ambitious plans for new Greenfield Airports, the State Government of Tamil Nadu has submitted an application for the development of a Greenfield airport at Parandur, Kancheepuram District. The proposal is currently in the ‘Site-Clearance’ stage and has been sent to the Airports Authority of India (AAI), DGCA, and Ministry of Defence (MoD) for their input. Once the consultation with stakeholders is complete, the proposal will be presented before the Steering Committee on Greenfield Airports for a recommendation on awarding Site Clearance.
Project Implementation and Timeline: A Multifaceted Approach
According to the Greenfield Airport Policy of 2008, the responsibility of implementing airport projects, including funding, land acquisition, and resettlement and rehabilitation (R&R), lies with the respective airport developers, including the State Government if they are the project proponent. The timeline for construction varies based on factors such as land acquisition, mandatory clearances, obstacle removal, and financial closure, all of which are managed by airport developers.
Conclusion: Advancing Aviation Infrastructure for a Prosperous Future
The approval of 21 new Greenfield Airports reflects the government’s commitment to augmenting India’s aviation infrastructure, thereby fostering connectivity and economic progress. With operational airports already contributing to regional development and upcoming projects set to unlock new opportunities, India’s aviation landscape is poised for a transformative journey toward enhanced accessibility and prosperity.
