Lack of Infrastructure Hinders Surat Airport Development Ahead of PM Modi’s Visit

Surat : Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to visit Surat in the coming months for the inauguration of the new terminal building at Surat airport and the highly anticipated Surat Diamond Bourse (SDB) project, worth Rs 3000 crore. However, the We Work for Working Airport in Surat (WWWAS) office-bearers have highlighted a series of challenges that are impeding the progress of Surat airport’s development.

WWWAS has expressed concerns regarding the bleak future of the Surat Diamond Bourse due to the lack of air connectivity, particularly the absence of international flights to key destinations like Dubai and Antwerp. The completion of the new terminal building, although a significant milestone, may become a symbol of unrealized potential if air connectivity and other essential infrastructure are not addressed promptly.

According to WWWAS, the government system has shown limited interest in advancing the development of Surat airport’s infrastructure. Despite a long-standing demand to extend the runway, no progress has been made in acquiring the necessary land and transferring it to the airport authority. The implementation of Approach Light Cat 1/Cat 2/Cat 3 categories, crucial for safe operations, has also been delayed. Additionally, the presence of unauthorized shrimp ponds in the vicinity of Surat airport remains unaddressed.

The imminent inauguration of the new terminal by the Prime Minister, the highest office in the country, highlights the apparent lack of coordinated efforts from the Airport Authority of India (AAI) and the Ministry of Civil Aviation to make the project truly impactful. The Ministry of Aviation has yet to announce an international route, the Gazette notification for granting Surat the International Airport tag has not been published, and the airport is not included in the point of call. Furthermore, the status of Surat as an embarkation point for Haj passengers from South Gujarat and North Maharashtra remains undecided.

The inadequate infrastructure at Surat airport has already resulted in airlines such as Go Air, Air India Express, Air India, Spice Jet, and Indigo either suspending or reducing their services, limiting connectivity options for travelers. This situation stands in stark contrast to the allocation of substantial funds, ranging from Rs 1000 crore to Rs 2,000 crore, for the development of airports in smaller cities.

Surat received Rs 150 crore for terminal expansion and an additional Rs 253 crore for other infrastructure development in 2018. However, even after five years, the completion of these projects remains pending, exacerbating the challenges faced by the airport and hindering its progress.

As Surat eagerly anticipates the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stakeholders and aviation enthusiasts hope that their concerns will be addressed, and urgent measures will be taken to overcome the existing obstacles and unlock the true potential of Surat airport and the Surat Diamond Bourse project.

The development of Surat airport is seen as a crucial step towards enhancing regional connectivity, promoting economic growth, and attracting investments to the city. Surat, known as the diamond and textile hub of India, holds immense potential for trade and commerce, and a well-connected airport is vital for the city’s progress.

Members of the We Work for Working Airport in Surat organization are urging the authorities to prioritize the expansion of air connectivity and infrastructure at Surat airport. They believe that without immediate action, the new terminal building and the ambitious Surat Diamond Bourse project may not achieve their intended objectives.

The significance of Surat airport as an international gateway for diamond traders cannot be undermined. However, the lack of direct flights to important diamond trading destinations like Dubai and Antwerp is hindering the growth and potential of the diamond industry in Surat. It is imperative that efforts are made to establish direct air links to these key cities, facilitating smoother trade and boosting the diamond business.

The Surat Diamond Bourse, projected to be the world’s largest diamond trading center, requires robust air connectivity to attract international buyers and sellers. Without convenient international flights, the future of the project appears uncertain. The successful establishment of the Surat Diamond Bourse is not only crucial for the diamond industry but also holds the potential to create numerous job opportunities and boost the economy of the region.

The We Work for Working Airport in Surat organization is calling for immediate action from the government, the Airport Authority of India, and the Ministry of Civil Aviation to address the pressing issues and accelerate the development of Surat airport. They emphasize the need to extend the runway, ensure compliance with aviation safety standards, remove unauthorized encroachments, and establish international flight routes.

Surat has demonstrated its economic prowess and resilience over the years, but its growth potential can only be fully realized with a well-functioning airport that caters to the needs of travelers, businesses, and industries alike. The upcoming visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi presents an opportune moment for these concerns to be heard and acted upon, ultimately paving the way for Surat to become a vibrant and globally connected city.