Surat: Union jal shakti minister C R Paatil on Saturday said that deliberate delays by contractors in executing the civil work at Surat International Airport (SIA) would invite punitive action as per regulations. Paatil was chairing a meeting of the Airport Advisory Committee (AAC).
At the meeting held at the airport, various aspects to improve infrastructure for better air connectivity were discussed. The meeting focused on advancing and enhancing facilities at the airport.
Issues of poor air connectivity, high airfares, and delayed infrastructure development have been raised over the past two decades, but a proper solution has not been found yet.
Paatil suggested that if Surat airport is developed on the model of Ahmedabad airport, it could significantly increase the airport’s revenue while providing superior facilities to passengers. Reviewing the progress of civil work at the airport, he expressed dissatisfaction with the slow pace and directed officials to expedite the work and said that deliberate delay would result in punitive action.
At the meeting, discussions were held on extending city bus service and the proposed metro service to the airport. The committee also deliberated on initiating e-visa facilities to improve passenger convenience.
Airport officials presented an update, highlighting the ongoing efforts by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) to enhance passenger amenities.
On Friday, a meeting was held with officials of Air India Express at the Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI). The airline requested the support of SGCCI to ensure the success of Surat-Bangkok flight and SGCCI assured full cooperation.
SGCCI president Vijay Mevawala requested AIE to change the Surat-Kolkata flight timing back to its earlier morning schedule. “This change would allow business travellers to complete their work in Kolkata and return to Surat on the same day, which is currently not possible due to the flight’s afternoon schedule,” Mevawala said.
