T.N. government writes to PM Modi seeking to change the operator of Chennai airport
In the letter sent in August, Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay has said Tamil Nadu has been industry-friendly, making consistent efforts to attract business and investment; hence, better management of the airport is of paramount importance
Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi in an effort to change the operator of Chennai airport. The Tamil Nadu government expressed dissatisfaction with certain aspects of the airport and requested the Central government to bring in a different operator instead of Airports Authority of India (AAI), according to sources.
In an August letter, the State government emphasized the importance of better management of the airport due to its industry-friendly stance in attracting business and investment. The letter highlighted the need for significant improvements in passenger volume, aircraft movement, and cargo volume at Chennai airport. The state's decision to drop the proposed greenfield airport project at Parandur and plans to expand the existing airport led to this move.
The State has shortlisted two sites, Cheyyur and Gummidipoondi, for the second airport, but building it will take years. Hence, the immediate priority is to expand the existing airport and privatize it. Air passengers have been demanding the privatisation of the airport for a long time, citing better upkeep, connectivity to more destinations, and enhanced ambience.
Delays in infrastructure projects, such as the cab pick-up point and the T3 Terminal under construction, have also contributed to the discontent. Many significant decisions are vetted by AAI headquarters in New Delhi, which adds to the delay in airport operations, though airport staff are making efforts, as per sources.
Written by urgent.news from The Hindu's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
