The Andhra Pradesh government is reigniting hopes for residents in Nellore district by fast-tracking the establishment of a new airport near Dagadarthi. Approximately 1,379 acres of land have been earmarked for this project, with efforts underway to acquire the remaining land. Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has convened meetings with key officials to ensure completion of new airport initiatives within three years. The Dagadarthi airport, a long-awaited development, received preliminary approval in 2016. With industrial growth anticipated in the region, local officials highlight the airport's potential to significantly enhance economic prospects and connectivity.
The Andhra Pradesh state government is reigniting the aspirations of residents in Nellore district by accelerating plans for a new airport near Dagadarthi. Approximately 1,379 acres of land have already been identified for the airport; however, a portion of this land still needs to be acquired. Following directives from the chief secretary, the district administration has initiated the process to acquire the remaining land. Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu recently reviewed the plans for the airport project with Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu and senior officials from the Union Ministry during his visit to New Delhi.
The Chief Minister has urged senior officials to fully cooperate in launching new airport projects across the state. Emphasizing that all new initiatives should be completed within three years, the Union Civil Aviation Ministry is expediting the process. A high-level delegation is expected to visit Nellore soon to inspect the land.
The Dagadarthi airport has been a long-awaited aspiration for the district, with Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu having nearly secured approval from the Centre back in 2016. During his tenure in the first NDA government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the central government granted 'in-principle' approval for the construction of three greenfield airports in the state, including those in Orvakal (Kurnool), Dagadarthi (Nellore), and Bhogapuram.
While the Orvakal airport was nearly completed during Naidu's administration, progress on the Bhogapuram international airport has gained momentum recently. The state government has also identified four additional locations for new airports, including Dagadarthi, Kuppam, Srikakulam, and Nagarjuna Sagar.
Although the Andhra Pradesh Aviation Development Corporation (APADCL) signed a concession agreement with Nellore International Airport Private Limited (NIAL) in 2018, the subsequent YSRCP government terminated the agreement, leaving the airport project in a state of uncertainty.
Municipal Administration Minister Dr. P. Narayana stated that Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu has assured that airport construction will begin as soon as the land acquisition process is finalized. He expressed optimism that the acquisition could be completed within six months, allowing the works to commence. Narayana noted that with the Ramayapatnam port set to launch, a significant number of industrial units are expected to establish themselves in the district. Additionally, he mentioned that the mega industrial zone Kris City is prepared to provide space for these industrial units. He emphasized that Dagadarthi airport would be highly beneficial and viable, given the influx of large-scale industries into the district.
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