Maharashtra CM Greenlights Helipads and Parking Facilities at Shirdi Airport

Synopsis
Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis has authorized the construction of two helipads and eight parking lots at Shirdi Airport, considering the upcoming Kumbh Mela. This initiative aims to modernize the airport and facilitate air travel for pilgrims.
Key Takeaways
- Two helipads and eight parking lots approved at Shirdi Airport.
- Modernization of terminal and runway expansion at Amravati Airport.
- Rapid progress on the cargo terminal at Shirdi Airport.
- Development of Latur Airport to benefit surrounding districts.
- Expansion proposals for various airports across Maharashtra.
Mumbai, April 25 (NationPress) With the Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Kumbh Mela approaching, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has given the green light for the development of two helipads and eight parking lots at Shirdi Airport, along with plans for the airport's expansion and modernization.
During the 91st meeting of the Board of Directors of the Maharashtra Airport Development Company (MADC), CM Fadnavis ordered that a proposal for extending the runway at Amravati Airport be presented. This expansion of Shirdi Airport was deemed necessary due to the expected influx of visitors during the Kumbh Mela, coupled with capacity constraints at Nashik Airport.
The approved project encompasses terminal upgrades, the addition of eight parking facilities, and the installation of two helipads, enhancing air and helicopter transport during the Kumbh Mela.
Additionally, Fadnavis highlighted the swift progress of the cargo terminal at Shirdi Airport, emphasizing its proximity to Nashik, which will facilitate air travel for pilgrims heading to the Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Kumbh Mela.
He also pointed out the necessity of extending the runway at Amravati Airport, given the burgeoning industrial landscape in the region, and stressed the importance of creating a revenue-generating strategy for the airport.
Latur district is experiencing significant development across various sectors, making Latur Airport critical. The Chief Minister emphasized the need for its enhancement, which will also aid nearby Beed and Dharashiv districts. He urged for expedited work at Karad Airport and the establishment of night landing capabilities.
For Chandrapur Airport, extending the runway to accommodate chartered aircraft was recommended, while for Gadchiroli Airport, exploring two to three alternative sites was suggested.
Updates regarding airports in Ratnagiri, Akola, Kolhapur, Nanded, and Dhule were also discussed. Currently, air services are operational on 16 routes within the state under the Regional Connectivity Scheme. It was reported that eight proposals have been submitted to the central government under the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme.