Vijayapura: Karnataka Minister for Large and Medium Industries and district in-charge for Vijayapura M.B. Patil has issued a directive to ensure the completion of all civil works pertaining to Vijayapura airport by November this year. The target for the airport's formal inauguration is by February 2024 after acquiring clearances from all relevant authorities, including the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
Patil, who held a meeting with the officials, emphasized that flight service should be operational from the first day of the airport's inauguration and urged the officials to held discussions with airlines in this regard.
"In its initial stage, the proposal did not have a nighttime landing facility. However, the Congress government has made provisions to facilitate night landings. A 7.25-kilometer four-lane road is also underway to connect the Airport to the National Highway, a project valued at Rs 54.50 crore. I stress the urgency in expediting land acquisition for this purpose," Patil said.
Spanning across a total area of 727 acres, the airport project is estimated to cost Rs 347.92 crore. As of August this year, Rs 303.70 crore has been disbursed for the project.
Patil emphasized the need for speedy recruitment of security and fire personnel, along with appointments for the airport director and terminal manager. Additionally, the procurement of vehicles will have to be concluded within the next two months, he directed the officials.
