The long-awaited Purandar Airport project has finally gained momentum as the Maharashtra government announced that land acquisition for the airport will be completed by October 2025. This development marks a significant step forward in the project, which has faced numerous delays and challenges since its inception in October 2016.
The Purandar Airport requires a total of 2,832 hectares of land, which will be acquired from seven villages in the Purandar taluka: Vanpuri, Pargaon Memane, Kumbharvalan, Ekhatpur, Udachi Wadi, Munjavade, and Khanavadi. The Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) has granted industrial zone status to these villages under the Maharashtra Industrial Development Act, paving the way for land acquisition.
Farmers will receive four times the market value of their land as compensation, ensuring fair compensation for those affected by the project. The district administration has initiated dialogue with farmers and aims to complete the land acquisition process by October 2025.
The project faced significant delays due to opposition from local communities and changes in government policies. However, with the current government reaffirming its commitment, progress is expected to accelerate. Once the land acquisition is complete, construction of the airport is expected to begin, with plans to operationalize it within the next five years.
The Purandar Airport is anticipated to boost economic growth in the region by enhancing connectivity and facilitating trade and tourism. The project will also lead to improved infrastructure development in surrounding areas, benefiting local residents and businesses.
The completion of land acquisition for the Purandar Airport by October 2025 marks a crucial milestone in the project's journey. The government moves forward with this ambitious initiative, it is poised to transform the aviation landscape in Maharashtra and contribute significantly to regional development.