International Connectivity Boost: Pune to See More Flights, Says MoS Mohol
Reported By Varad Bhatkhande
Pune, 16th June 2024: Newly elected MP from Pune, Murlidhar Mohol, assumed responsibilities as Minister of State (MoS) for Cooperation along with Civil Aviation. Given his Pune background, the people had high expectations from Mohol regarding resolving longstanding issues at Pune Airport. In response, MoS Murlidhar Mohol conducted a review meeting that included various discussions related to Pune Airport.
Pune Airport has struggled to meet the increasing demands of its burgeoning demand. Many residents face challenges such as infrequent flights and a lack of international connections. Pune citizens often have to travel over 160 kilometres to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai, to fulfil their travel needs. Therefore, it is crucial to develop Pune Airport.
During the meeting, Murlidhar Mohol emphasized the necessity to expand Pune Airport’s runway to meet increasing demand. He announced the acquisition of 35 acres of land for this purpose, noting that the process would commence shortly. Mohol outlined the funding structure, stating that the Maharashtra State Government would contribute 60%, Pune Municipal Corporation 20%, and both Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation and Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) 10% each.
Mohol also mentioned plans for a meeting with India’s Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh, acknowledging that many flights have been delayed recently, causing inconvenience to passengers. He explained, “One aircraft has been out of service for several days, necessitating a 25-day repair period. This issue has led to significant flight delays.”
The new terminal at Pune Airport, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in March 2024, remains non-operational due to delayed regulatory approvals and a shortage of security personnel. Murlidhar Mohol addressed the issue, stating, “We have inspected the new terminal. It requires personnel from the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF). Discussions regarding this have taken place with the Home Minister of India, Amit Shah. He will make a decision soon. Once adequate manpower is in place, the terminal can begin operations swiftly.”
The new terminal, once operational, will have the capacity to accommodate 9 million passengers annually.
DGCA Approves Pune’s Purandar Airport
Mohol also disclosed that the proposed international airport in Pune’s Purandar Taluka has completed clearance work, securing Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) approval for construction at the designated site. The next phase involves land acquisition, with actions already initiated by the Maharashtra State Government. MoS Muralidhar Mohol confirmed the advancement of these plans.
Navi Mumbai Airport Completion Set for 2025
Alongside announcing increased international flights from Pune Airport, Mohol also shared an update about the D. B. Patil International Airport in Navi Mumbai. He stated that the Navi Mumbai airport is scheduled to become operational in March 2025. This is welcome news for Punekars, as the airport’s proximity to Pune will significantly reduce travel time compared to Mumbai Airport.