Vadhvan Airport Construction Expected to Begin Next Year, Confirms Devendra Fadnavis

The Maharashtra government plans to start constructing India's first offshore airport near Mumbai next year, according to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. He announced this at the Western Region Ministers Conference of Civil Aviation. The Vadhvan Airport will be the third in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. An agency has been appointed to prepare a detailed project report (DPR) for this initiative.

Currently, Mumbai has one operational airport, with a second one at Navi Mumbai nearing completion by the Adani Group. Fadnavis expressed hope that work on the Vadhvan offshore airport would begin in 2026. He highlighted the successful land reclamation for the Rs 76,000 crore greenfield port project at Vadhvan as a precedent for building an offshore airport.

Infrastructure Development Plans

The chief minister also discussed plans for a second airport in Pune, located in Purandar. The state government aims to complete land acquisition for this project within four to five months. Fadnavis emphasised that developing airports leads to economic growth by attracting investments to the area.

Out of Maharashtra's 36 districts, 24 currently have either an airport or an airstrip. The government intends to increase this number to 30 by upgrading existing airstrips. This expansion is part of a broader strategy to enhance regional connectivity and stimulate economic development.

Economic Impact of Airports

Fadnavis noted that establishing an airport in a region often results in increased investment and economic growth. This is because airports serve as critical infrastructure that facilitates business activities and tourism, thereby boosting local economies.

The chief minister's announcements reflect Maharashtra's commitment to improving its aviation infrastructure. By expanding airport facilities, the state aims to meet growing air travel demands and support regional economic development.

The proposed Vadhvan Airport represents a significant step in enhancing Mumbai's aviation capacity. As the first offshore airport in India, it underscores the state's innovative approach to infrastructure development.

With inputs from PTI