Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has issued a directive to the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) to assume control of five airports in the state, namely Nanded, Latur, Dharashiv, Yavatmal, and Baramati, which were previously leased to a private company. During a meeting convened at Mantralaya on Wednesday to evaluate the progress of airport development projects under the purview of MIDC, Pawar highlighted the fact that these airports had not been operational for the past 14 years. He underscored the importance of commencing air services in smaller cities within the state to alleviate the strain on major metropolitan airports.
Pawar emphasized the need to construct necessary infrastructural facilities wherever space permits the establishment of airports. He further instructed the authorities to enhance the frequency of air services in regions where they are already operational. Additionally, he called for the extension of runways at select airports and the introduction of night landing capabilities at specific locations.
This strategic move is anticipated to not only alleviate traffic congestion issues but also provide citizens with more accessible and affordable air travel options.
