Mumbai: Union Minister of Civil Aviation P. Ashok Gajapathi Raju on Tuesday reiterated the need for another airport in a city that is bursting, referring to Mumbai airports’ inability to fulfill airlines’ requests for slots.
When asked about the the approval of Navi Mumbai airport by the State Cabinet, Mr. Raju said it is an executive issue. “Suppose you had an alternative like the Navi Mumbai airport; had a full-fledged, parallel runway, modern structure, then the city would be served better.”
The minister said the infrastructure is being developed by some agency fixed by the State. “It is accountable to the State; we, in (the) government of India will do anything to help it happen. That’s what it’s going to be. The quicker we get it, the better.”
Mr. Raju was in Mumbai for the inauguration of the Integrated Operational Office Complex Building, which will house the Airport Authority of India, Director General of Civil Aviation, and the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security. The 14,580 sqm. structure in Ville Parle (East) has been constructed at a cost of ₹70 crore.
A solar plant of 31.5 kWp capacity has been installed on the terrace of the building, with solar lights installed as periphery lights. Apart from housing LED lights and Lux sensors, the building is designed to have maximum natural lighting. Variable Air Volume, an air-conditioning system with an occupancy sensor, and Variable Refrigerant Volume for beyond office hour working have been installed for energy saving.
On Juhu airport, Mr. Raju said while it is mainly a heliport, it does share airspace with the Chattrapati Shivaji Internationali Airport, giving rise to another set of complications and inefficiencies.
When asked about the future of Air India and any possible avenues the government is exploring, Mr. Raju said while it is a lovely airline, he is not uncritical in his praise. He went on to say that due to the conditions of its (Air India’s) finances, business as usual is not going to be possible. While the Minister did not rule out privatisation of the airline — whose operational profits do not meet its debt requirements — he said the government is not closing any of its options.
Another concern is the conflict between the substantial ownership and effective control clause in the Aircraft Rules (1937) and the authorisation of 100% FDI in the sector. The minister acknowledged the need for an amendment, but to have regulations which will be meaningful and will keep and sustain growth in the sector.
