Date:21/07/2005 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2005/07/21/stories/2005072102691900.htm

Back Plea to upgrade Mangalore airport to international status

Our Bureau

Mangalore , July 20

THE Saudi Arabia-based West Coast NRI Forum has urged the Union Government to upgrade the Mangalore airport to international status.

In a memorandum to the Prime Minister, submitted through the Mangalore Airport Director, the forum said the Government should allow the landing of international flights at Mangalore Airport. If upgraded to international status, the airport could serve around two lakh passengers a year.

The forum comprises NRIs from Dakshina Kannada, Udupi and Kodagu districts of Karnataka and Kasaragod district of Kerala. The memorandum said a large number of NRIs from these districts are working in Saudi Arabia.

A direct flight between West Asia and Mangalore will reduce the time of travel between these two regions.

The forum said the coastal region has been witnessing growth with some of the major industries such as Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Ltd, Mangalore Chemicals and Fertilizers and Kudremukh Iron Ore Company Ltd functioning from the region. The region has ample potential for industrial development, provided an international airport is made available at appropriate time.

An international airport will also open new horizons for eco-tourism along the coast.

The coastal region, which has numerous educational institutions providing quality education in various fields, is attracting NRI students from various parts of the world. An international airport will also benefit them.

The forum said Mangalore is the only place in Karnataka having a major seaport and a well-connected national highway and railway networks.

Considering these benefits, the Government should take steps to upgrade Mangalore airport to international status, it said.