Authorities in Kolhapur have initiated the demolition of 83 unauthorized buildings situated within the 20-kilometre funnel zone of the Kolhapur Airport. This action underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring secure flight operations and urban development adherence to established norms.
The funnel zone, as defined by the Airports Authority of India (AAI), encompasses the airspace surrounding the runway ends, crucial for maintaining safe aircraft operations during take-off and landing. Encroachments within this zone pose significant risks, including visual obstructions for pilots and potential interference with navigational aids. District Collector Amol Yedge has announced plans to issue a circular mandating developers to obtain a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from the AAI before commencing any construction within this designated area. This directive aims to prevent further unauthorized developments and ensure that all future constructions comply with aviation safety standards.
The demolition process will commence shortly, with affected property owners being served notices to vacate their premises. These structures, primarily constructed without proper approvals, have been identified as obstacles that hinder the full utilization of the airport, including restricting night landings and limiting the use of the runway’s west alignment. Airport officials have emphasized that the owners of these illegal buildings will not be entitled to compensation, as the constructions were deemed unauthorized and posed safety hazards. Furthermore, the runway is slated for an expansion to 3,000 meters, with land acquisition already completed to facilitate this development.
This initiative aligns with the broader efforts to modernize and expand Kolhapur Airport, enhancing its capacity to handle larger aircraft and increasing passenger traffic. The airport’s recent approval for night landing facilities and runway extension by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) marks a significant milestone in its development. These upgrades are expected to improve connectivity and support regional economic growth. The demolition of unauthorized structures within the funnel zone serves as a critical step in safeguarding aviation operations and ensuring that urban development progresses in harmony with national safety standards. As Kolhapur continues to grow, it is imperative that all stakeholders collaborate to maintain a balance between development and safety, fostering an environment conducive to both economic advancement and public well-being.
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