The Maharashtra state government has taken a decisive step to reclaim five airports from Reliance Airport Developers Private Limited (RADPL), a subsidiary of Reliance Infrastructure led by Anil Ambani. The decision was announced by Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis during a session at the Assembly. The move comes in response to RADPL’s failure to fulfill its obligations in developing and operating the airports, leading to their non-functionality and unpaid dues.
The five airports in question are Baramati, Nanded, Latur, Yavatmal, and Osmanabad. In 2009, RADPL was awarded a 30-year contract to undertake the development and operation of these airports. However, the company has not been able to initiate operations, resulting in a significant setback to regional connectivity in these areas.
Acknowledging the pressing need for a single nodal agency to oversee airport development, Deputy Chief Minister Fadnavis assured the formation of such an agency in the near future. The introduction of this agency is expected to streamline airport development processes, prevent similar incidents in the future, and bolster regional connectivity across the state.
In addition to reclaiming control of the five airports, the state government is actively working on enhancing regional connectivity and airport infrastructure. Fadnavis highlighted the government’s intention to secure additional slots at Mumbai’s main airport, Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport (CSIA), to accommodate increased air traffic. This move aims to alleviate congestion at CSIA and ensure smoother travel experiences for passengers.
Furthermore, the government is looking forward to the inauguration of the Navi Mumbai airport, scheduled to commence operations in August 2024. The new airport is anticipated to significantly relieve the pressure on CSIA and serve as a vital component in further strengthening Maharashtra’s position as a leading economic hub.
