Question : PROPOSAL OF AIRPORT AT AHMEDNAGAR IN MAHARASHTRA

(a) whether some years back a proposal for setting up an Airport at Ahmednagar, Maharashtra was considered and later on it was kept in abeyance;

(b) if so, the reasons therefor;

(c) whether the Government is aware that famous Sirdi Sai Baba Mandir, Sani Singnapur Mandir and other world famous religious places are situated in this area and thousands of foreigners every year visit these places;

(d) if so, the measures proposed to be taken to develop an Airport at Ahmednagar to attract more and more foreigners to these religious places; and

(e) if not, the reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF STATE(INDEPENDENT CHARGE) OF THE MINISTRY OF CIVIL AVIATION ( SHRI PRAFUL PATEL )

(a) & (b) Airports Authority of India (AAI) had carried out a feasibility study of the proposed site at Ahmednagar. State Government of Maharashtra was requested to provide details of land and other relevant information. Till date availability of land has not been confirmed by the State Government. There is no request/committment by any scheduled airline to operate their services through Ahmednagar.

(c) Yes, Sir.

(d) AAI is exploring the availability of suitable site in the near vicinity of Shirdi for developing an airport.

(e) Does not arise.