Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Apr 25: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday greenlit a series of infrastructure developments aimed at improving air travel in the state, especially in light of the upcoming Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Kumbh Mela. The decision includes the construction of two helipads, eight parking lots, and the expansion and modernisation of Shirdi Airport.
The move is intended to accommodate the anticipated surge in air traffic due to the large number of pilgrims expected to visit for the Kumbh Mela. In addition to the expansion of the terminal and parking facilities, the construction of two helipads will ensure smooth air and helicopter services during the event.
CM Fadnavis, who chaired the 91st meeting of the Maharashtra Airport Development Company (MADC), also noted that work on the cargo terminal at Shirdi Airport was progressing rapidly. The airport’s proximity to Nashik will offer significant convenience to air travellers during the Kumbh Mela, as the region is expected to experience large crowds.
Recognising the need for further improvements, Fadnavis directed that plans for the expansion of Amravati Airport’s runway be submitted, citing the area’s growing industrial activity. He also called for the preparation of a revenue-generating plan for the airport to ensure its long-term viability.
The Chief Minister underscored the importance of the Latur district, which is seeing significant growth across various sectors, making Latur Airport increasingly strategic. He stressed that the airport should be developed accordingly to support regional connectivity, benefiting the nearby Beed and Dharashiv districts.
Further, CM Fadnavis instructed the fast-tracking of work at Karad Airport, including the development of night landing facilities, and emphasised the need to extend the runway at Chandrapur Airport to accommodate chartered aircraft. For Gadchiroli Airport, he recommended evaluating alternative locations to ensure better operational efficiency.
The meeting also reviewed progress on various airports, including those in Ratnagiri, Akola, Kolhapur, Nanded, and Dhule. Under the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS), air services are already operating on 16 routes within Maharashtra. Additionally, eight proposals have been submitted to the central government under the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme, which aims to enhance regional connectivity and make air travel accessible to more people.
These developments reflect Maharashtra's commitment to improving infrastructure to support both the state's growing air traffic demands and the spiritual needs of pilgrims attending major events like the Kumbh Mela.