Delay in Doloo Airport Construction as AAI Awaits Report
The development of the much-awaited Doloo greenfield airport in Assam’s Cachar district has been delayed as the Airports Authority of India (AAI) is yet to submit the required Detailed Project Report (DPR). Although the Ministry of Civil Aviation granted site clearance for the airport more than a year ago, the lack of the DPR has stalled the process of securing ‘in-principle’ approval for the construction work to commence.
The Civil Aviation Ministry recently informed the Rajya Sabha that the site clearance for Doloo was granted on February 22, 2024. However, the AAI must first complete the DPR, which must include essential details such as the environmental and social impact assessments, construction timelines, and project feasibility. Once the report is submitted, the Ministry will be able to grant ‘in-principle’ approval, allowing the project to move forward.While the Doloo project faces delays, the government has been successful in operationalising several other greenfield airports across India.
Recently, airports in Itanagar, Goa, and Madhya Pradesh have been completed, highlighting the government’s push for better regional connectivity. However, the delay in submitting DPRs has become a hurdle for some projects, including Doloo.The Doloo airport, once operational, is expected to boost connectivity and economic activity in the region. The delay in its construction underlines the bureaucratic hurdles that often slow down infrastructure projects in India, especially in the northeast.
Despite the setbacks, officials are optimistic that once the DPR is submitted, the project will be fast-tracked, ensuring that the region benefits from improved air connectivity.
