Telangana Picks Antargam for New Airport, Drops Basantnagar over Weather Woes (Canva)
The newly identified location spans approximately 591 acres and is considered suitable for airport development. Officials have submitted a detailed report to the central government, which includes ten-year weather statistics and revenue maps. A group of central officials has already visited the proposed site, and the state has requested a feasibility study to assess its suitability for an airport.
Regional Connectivity Plans
According to a report by ABN, the land and climatic conditions in Antargam mandal are favourable for aviation infrastructure, and there is potential for acquiring additional land in nearby areas if necessary. The Telangana government aims to enhance regional air connectivity, particularly as it plans to establish airports in several districts, including Warangal, Bhadradri Kothagudem, Adilabad, Mahbubnagar, and Nizamabad.
Reviving Abandoned Airstrips
Interestingly, Basantnagar once housed an operational airstrip covering over 260 acres, with active aircraft services nearly fifty years ago. Although the airstrip has remained idle for decades, the state government is considering reviving it alongside another abandoned airstrip at Mamunur in the Wthe Arangal district. This initiative aligns with the government’s broader aviation policy aimed at improving intra-state and inter-state connectivity.
Since the Congress government took office in Telangana, there has been a renewed focus on improving regional air connectivity. Letters have been sent to the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation seeking approval and support for the development of airports across the state.
