Maharashtra has initiated plans for what could become India’s first offshore airport, with the proposed facility likely to be developed near Kore Beach in Palghar district. The project took a significant step forward after Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis visited the proposed site and directed officials to prepare a detailed project report (DPR).
If approved and developed, the offshore airport is expected to strengthen aviation infrastructure in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) while reducing pressure on the city’s existing airport and complementing the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport.
The proposed airport is also envisioned as a key component of the region’s rapidly expanding transport and logistics network. Its strategic location would enable seamless connectivity with several major infrastructure projects currently under development, including the Vadhavan Port, the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train corridor and the proposed Uttan-Virar Sea Link.
Officials believe the project has the potential to support future passenger and cargo traffic while enhancing regional connectivity and driving economic growth in northern MMR.
The preparation of the DPR will assess the project’s technical feasibility, environmental aspects, design, cost estimates and implementation roadmap. Once completed, the report will form the basis for further approvals and planning.
If the proposal moves ahead, the offshore airport would mark a landmark milestone in India’s aviation sector and significantly expand the country’s airport infrastructure.
Source: Outlook Traveller
