There is a significant progress in the development of the proposed greenfield airport in Kota, emphasising the rapid advancement of construction efforts. Kota-Bundi MP Om Birla, accompanied by officials from the Airport Authority of India, conducted a site visit to the designated area for the airport situated in Shambupura village within Bundi district.
Progress report of Kota greenfield airport
The necessary formalities for land allocation concerning the proposed airport have been successfully concluded. Additionally, a pivotal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) facilitating the relocation of high-tension power lines was formally signed on the same day. Birla expressed optimism regarding the imminent commencement of work to shift these power lines, highlighting its significance in enabling the progression of the airport project. Furthermore, he informed reporters that efforts to draft a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the airport are currently underway, indicating the commitment to thorough planning and execution.
Elaborating on the airport’s strategic location, Birla noted its proximity, approximately 15 kilometers from Kota and 20 kilometers from Bundi. He underscored the potential economic and infrastructural benefits the completed airport would bring to the region, envisioning its role in fostering growth and connectivity.
Gaining prominence due to Lok Sabha elections?
The necessity for a fully operational airport in Kota has been a longstanding demand, often gaining prominence during election cycles. Birla referenced its significance in past electoral campaigns, noting its emergence as a crucial issue in both the 2018 assembly polls and the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. This demand is further accentuated by the annual influx of over two lakh students to Kota, drawn by the city’s reputation as an educational hub for engineering and medical entrance exam preparation, specifically JEE and NEET. Many of these students traverse extensive distances, often compelled to undertake circuitous routes via New Delhi, Jaipur, or Udaipur due to the absence of a direct air link to Kota.
Blame game due to delays
The development of the Kota airport has been mired in political contention, with both the Congress and the BJP trading blame for delays. This discord reflects the intersection of state and central politics, as each party seeks to leverage the airport project for political gain. Despite this, Birla’s recent announcement signals a concerted effort to transcend political rhetoric and expedite the airport’s development for the benefit of the local populace and the broader region.
Kota infrastructure development
The progress made in the construction of the Kota greenfield airport underscores a significant milestone in the region’s infrastructure development. With key administrative hurdles overcome and tangible steps towards implementation underway, the airport project holds the promise of enhancing connectivity, stimulating economic growth, and fulfilling a longstanding aspiration of the people of Kota and Bundi.