IOA considers constructing new International airport at Rajguru Ngr

Pune, June 21 (UNI) After the defence ministry rejected the earlier proposal to construct an international airport at Chakan near here, the IOA is likely to construct a new international airport at Rajguru Nagar on Pune-Nashik Road around 50 kms from here, City MP and Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President Suresh Kalmadi said here today.

After a review meeting between Airports Authority officials, Civil Administration Commissioner and Collector, Hospitality sector and others, Kalmadi told mediapersons that since the defence ministry had rejected the proposed orientation of the runway at Chakan vide a letter, the IOA had to look at other places and as a last resort, efforts would be made to work out a proposal for an international airport at Rajguru Nagar.

Kalmadi said in view of the Commonwealth Youth Games in 2008, the facilities at the Pune International Airport would be extended and the airport will be operational on a full-fledged basis before the games.

For the purpose, around 66 acres of land has been sought from the Air Force for extending the runway and around 200 acres of land in front of the airport for a separate VIP road and entry to the Airport, the Government of Maharashtra will first acquire the land, that will be bought by the Airports Authority, he said, adding that sharing of facilities presently being used by the Air Force was also discussed.

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