AAI team inspects alternate sites for proposed Bhadradri greenfield airport
AAI team begins two-day site inspection for Bhadradri greenfield airport after earlier locations were deemed unsuitable.
A multidisciplinary team from the Airports Authority of India (AAI) commenced a two-day inspection on Monday of alternative locations shortlisted for the proposed greenfield airport in Bhadradri Kothagudem district.
The exercise follows a pre-feasibility study last year that deemed two previously identified sites unsuitable for the project. In response, the district administration shortlisted five to six alternative locations, including Seethampeta in Sujathanagar mandal, Chaparalapalli in Mulakalapalli mandal, Penagadapa in Chunchupalli mandal, and sites in Dummugudem and Palvancha mandals.
On the first day, the team surveyed three of these sites, examining land availability, geographical coordinates, revenue maps, and other technical parameters. The broader study will assess topography, geological and climatic conditions, night-landing requirements, and the viability of the runway approach funnel.
Earlier in the day, the team met Khammam MP Ramasahayam Raghuram Reddy and district officials at the Singareni guest house in Kothagudem. Discussions focused on identifying a site capable of supporting a 2,500-metre to 2,700-metre runway suitable for ATR-72 and Airbus A320/A321 aircraft, along with the necessary logistics and infrastructure.
Officials noted that the presence of electrified railway lines used for coal transport near one of the alternate sites was also discussed during the meeting.
The remaining sites are scheduled for inspection on Tuesday. Following the survey, the team is expected to conduct a detailed technical feasibility study and submit its report to the government.