Karnataka's Ambitious Airport Expansion: Rs 270.83 Crore Boost for Vijayapura

Karnataka Infrastructure Development Minister MB Patil announced on Friday that the state cabinet has approved an additional allocation of Rs 270.83 crore for the Vijayapura 'Greenfield' Airport. This funding aims to facilitate operations of Airbus-320 type aircraft and enhance night landing capabilities and other infrastructure.

The decision emerged from a cabinet meeting on Thursday, where the proposal was scrutinized in detail before receiving approval. This additional allocation means the airport's developmental costs will rise to Rs 618.75 crore. The original infrastructure was initially intended for ATR aircraft, but modifications now allow for Airbus-320 operations.

Allocations include Rs 65 crore for night-landing facilities and land compensation, Rs 52 crore for an approach road to National Highway-50, and Rs 25 crore for rescue vehicles and equipment. Other essential allocations were made for BDS and DVOR systems. The project is periodically reviewed by civil aviation authorities, aligning with prescribed standards, and is projected to boost Vijayapura's economic and tourism sectors.

(With inputs from agencies.)