BHOPAL: The state government has agreed to provide 106 acre to Airports Authority of India’s (AAI) in lieu of the encroached land. The government has handed over 96.56 acres of land, which is adjacent to the existing land of Bhopal airport. Remaining 10 acre will also be provided. State government has utilized AAI land for various purposes including establishment of offices, public amenities and for rehabilitation of migrated Sindhi families.
AAI director Anil Vikram Singh told Free Press, “Land encroached by MP Government cannot be reclaimed. So we will surrender it to state government. In lieu of it, MP Government has agreed to provide us 106 acre plot.” The Central Cabinet on Thursday approved the AAI proposal to surrender its claim on 106.76 acres of land which has been ‘encroached’upon by the MP government.
Bhopal airport to get bus connection from Friday
Divisional commissioner also said, “A public transport bus service will start from Airport to Bhopal city from Friday. Secondly, Indore-Bhopal-Khajuraho air connectivity will also be established.” She said that AAI should ensure prices of food items within reach of passengers.
‘Launch cargo service for farm produce’
Bhopal collector Sudam Khade said, “More land will be allotted to AAI for parking and other purpose. Construction of green and safe road is underway from Airport to Bhopal city.” He said that cargo service should also be started for agriculture produce for national and international market.
Nine flights introduced in last 3 months
Divisional Commissioner stressed on exploring avenues for coordination between Jet Airways (India) Limited and Etihad Airways for more flights from Raja Bhoj Airport. Soon, direct flights to Pune, Kolkatta, Patna and Lucknow are slated to be be started. Divisional commissioner Kaplana Shrivastava presided over meeting with AAI officials, airways companies executives, CII, MP Chamber of Commerce, Tour and Travels companies representatives. It emerged from the meeting that in last three months, nine flights have been introduced and by March end, 7 more flights are likely to be introduced.