In a move that could affect the process of modernisation and restructuring of Delhi and Mumbai airports, a parliamentary panel has recommended developing greenfield airports in both the metros that have the capacity to handle more passenger and air traffic.
In its 90th report tabled in Parliament on Tuesday, the Standing Committee on Transport, Tourism and Culture also sought a probe into the awarding of contracts at the Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) observing that “since the equity holders are themselves the service providers, there is certainly a conflict of interest” at BIAL.
The panel, chaired by CPI(M) MP Nilotpal Basu, observed that the Mumbai airport would get “completely choked” by 2012 and a second runway cannot be constructed there.
“The Committee fails to understand as to how the huge investment to be made at the airport could be justified when the existing capacity constraints would not permit capacity addition,” Basu said, while recommending that it would be prudent to go in for a new greenfield airport rather than going ahead with the present process of modernisation and restructuring.
He said the existing infrastructure at Delhi airport would be inadequate to handle the growth projected by the government. “The Committee recommends that the government should explore the possibility of having a greenfield airport in Delhi also".
More: hindustantimes.com
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