Airports Authority of India to develop 11 new airports in Gujrat

On December 6, 2023, the Gujarat government solidified a strategic partnership with the Airports Authority of India (AAI) through the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU). This collaboration is geared towards a comprehensive plan for the development of 11 new greenfield airports and the expansion of nine existing ones in the state.

The identified towns for new airport development include Ankleshwar, Morbi, Rajpipla, Botad, Dwarka, Dhordo, Rajula, Dahod, Ambaji, Dholavira, and Palitana. To kickstart these projects, the government and AAI will conduct rigorous technical feasibility studies and assess the availability of the required land. As outlined in the agreement,the  Gujarat government is committed to providing the necessary land and essential utilities such as electricity and water.

The ambitious vision also explores the potential establishment of three additional greenfield airports in Vadnagar, Siddhpur, and Kevadia. Additionally, plans include the brownfield development of nine existing airports, encompassing Surat, Vadodara, Kandla, Porbandar, Bhavnagar, and Keshod. Airstrip expansions are under consideration for Mehsana, Amreli, and Mandvi airports. The anticipated cost for each airport's development is estimated to range between Rs 1,500-3,000 crore.

The collaboration between the Gujarat government and AAI extends to the joint development of an international airport at Dholera. Presently, Gujarat boasts 11 operational airports and sea-plane terminals in Ahmedabad and Kevadia. This strategic initiative aims to bolster tourism, enhance regional connectivity, stimulate trade and commerce, and foster job creation through the growth of the aviation sector.

To ensure the seamless execution of these projects, a 10-member coordination committee will be established under the chairpersonship of AAI. This committee will play a pivotal role in overseeing and facilitating the successful realization of the new greenfield airports, expansion of existing ones, and the overall advancement of civil aviation infrastructure in Gujarat.

News by Rahul Yeligetti