Minister conveys concern on airport project to Praful

Chennai, Jun 21 (UNI) Union Minister of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways T R Baalu today met Civil Aviation Minister Praful Patel and conveyed the concerns of the local people on the expansion plans of the Chennai Airport.

He informed Mr Patel the proposed land acquisition at Pozhichalur, Pammal, Anakaputhur and Gowl Bazaar would seriously affect over 5,000 dwellings.

''Over 50,000 residents, mostly belonging to the poorer sections of the society will be affected by the expansion plan,'' an official release quoted Mr Baalu as having told Mr Patel.

Later, the Civil Aviation Minister deputed a high-level team to meet Mr Baalu for a meaningful appreciation of the whole issue.

Mr Baalu urged the officials to consider more options and alternatives for the proposed project by the AAI.

In view of the severe resentment expressed by the local population, he suggested newly explored options and alternatives be discussed with all stakeholders, especially with the Tamil Nadu Government, before arriving at final decision.

The Civil Aviation officials informed Mr Baalu that they were open to either expansion of the existing Chennai Airport for a new location for the International Airport.

They also assured that they would have a re-look on their plans and consider the views of the stakeholders and the final course of action would be decided only after proper consultations with the state government.

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