Dholera International Airport Sanctioned Rs. 1,700 Crores: A Boost to Gujarat’s Aviation Sector

Gujarat, known for its vibrant culture and robust economy, has added another feather to its cap with the sanctioning of Rs. 1,700 crores for the development of the Dholera International Airport. This project, approved by the Airports Authority of India (AAI), is a major step towards boosting the state’s aviation sector and positioning it as a hub for international air traffic. Let us delve into the details of this ambitious project and its potential impact on Gujarat’s economy.

Location and Significance of Dholera International Airport

The Dholera International Airport is strategically located in the Dholera Special Investment Region (SIR) in Gujarat. Dholera SIR, spread over an area of 920 square kilometers, is one of the largest and most ambitious industrial projects in the country. The airport will be built over an area of 1,426 hectares and is expected to serve as a gateway for the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC) and provide seamless connectivity to major cities in the state.

The airport will not only cater to the growing demand for air travel but also serve as a crucial link for trade and tourism in Gujarat. It is estimated that the Dholera SIR will attract investment worth Rs. 14,000 crores and generate employment for around 8 lakh people, further highlighting the importance of the airport in the region’s development.

Project Details

The Dholera International Airport project will involve the construction of a new terminal building, air traffic control tower, runway, apron, taxiways, and other associated airport infrastructure. The airport will have the capacity to handle 1,200 passengers during peak hours and would be equipped with state-of-the-art facilities. The AAI has allocated Rs. 1,700 crores for the first phase of the project, to be completed within three years. The total cost of the project is estimated at around Rs. 2,000 crores.

Moreover, the airport will be built with a focus on sustainability and energy efficiency. The AAI has proposed the use of renewable energy sources like solar power to meet the airport’s energy needs. This will not only reduce the airport’s carbon footprint but also make it cost-effective in the long run.

Benefits of Dholera International Airport

The development of Dholera International Airport is expected to bring about numerous benefits for Gujarat and its people. Let us look at some of them:

1. Improved Connectivity

The airport will provide better connectivity to major cities in Gujarat, making it easier for people to travel within the state. It will also provide international connectivity, making it easier for tourists and businesses to access the state.

2. Boost to Trade and Tourism

The airport’s location in Dholera SIR, which aims to be a major industrial and commercial hub, will attract investment and create employment opportunities. It will also boost tourism in the state, as visitors can now directly fly to Gujarat instead of taking connecting flights.

3. Economic Growth

The airport is expected to contribute to the state’s economic growth, not only through the creation of jobs but also by promoting trade and commerce. It will also act as a catalyst for the development of other allied industries in the region.

4. Development of Dholera SIR

The Dholera SIR was already a major project, but with the development of an international airport, it will attract more investment and serve as a growth driver for Gujarat’s economy.

5. Improved Standard of Living

The airport’s development will also lead to an improvement in the standard of living of people in the surrounding areas. The increase in trade and tourism will bring in more revenue, leading to better infrastructure facilities and overall development.

Conclusion

The Dholera International Airport project is a significant step towards the development of Gujarat’s aviation sector and overall economic growth. It will provide better connectivity, promote trade and tourism, and contribute to the state’s growth story. With the project expected to be completed within three years, the wait for Gujarat to have an international airport will soon be over, and we can look forward to a brighter future for the state.