Date:12/02/2005 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2005/02/12/stories/2005021201461700.htm

Back Concern over delay in funds release for Mangalore airport

Our Bureau

Mangalore , Feb. 11

THE Kanara Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has expressed concern over the delay in releasing funds by the Karnataka Government for the expansion of Mangalore airport.

In a letter to the State Government, the KCCI President, Mr A. Srinivasa Rao, said that the State has not yet released the entire amount earmarked for the acquisition of land for airport expansion. The delay in release of funds may also affect the Airports Authority of India's investment plans in the project.

He suggested that the Government hand over land acquisition work to the Karnataka Industrial Area Development Board.

This will help in speedy completion of the project.

The Airports Authority of India can begin work on the second terminal building immediately only if the Government provides land to it on time, he added.

In a separate press release, the Mangalore MLA, Mr N. Yogish Bhat, said that the Minister for Major Industries and Civil Aviation, Mr P.G.R. Sindhia, had told him that the expansion work, including the construction of the second runway, will be completed by December.