The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) has granted site clearance for the Greenfield Airport Project in Kottayam, Kerala. This project is aimed at enhancing connectivity to Sabarimala and is being developed by the Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation (KSIDC). The Kottayam Greenfield Airport project is proposed to be developed on roughly 2,250 acres of land, and KSIDC aims to undertake the project in a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. The estimated cost of the entire development project has been pegged at Rs 4,000 crore.
After several rounds of engagement with the project proponent- KSIDC/Government of Kerala, MoCA has granted Site Clearance for a Greenfield Airport project at Kottayam (Sabarimala) which will enhance connectivity and development in the region. (1/2) pic.twitter.com/9huKzDWHT6
— MoCA_GoI (@MoCA_GoI) April 17, 2023
The airport will have a runway length of at least 3.5 kilometres on 08/26 alignment, and once completed, it will be the 5th International Airport in the State. The Government of Kerala has accorded ‘priority’ status by the State Government. The airport will be located far enough from the Sabarimala Temple to avoid any disturbance at the religious site.
The views of Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Airports Authority of India (AAI) were already taken into account during the feasibility study stage. The spatial data pertaining to the Sabarimala Greenfield Airport Project has been integrated into the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan portal maintained by BISAG-N. Site clearance from MoCA is expected to be obtained for the Airport project very soon.
This project will not only enhance connectivity to Sabarimala but also boost development in the region. The airport is expected to bring in more tourists and businesses, which will result in the creation of jobs and an increase in economic activity. The PPP model will ensure that the private sector brings in the necessary funds and expertise for the project, while the government provides the necessary support and oversight.
Overall, the Kottayam Greenfield Airport project is a significant step towards enhancing connectivity and development in the region. With the MoCA granting site clearance, the project can now move forward to the next phase of development. It is expected that the project will be completed in a timely manner and will bring significant benefits to the people of Kerala.