In a pointed political jab ahead of a major infrastructure milestone in Rajasthan, former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has claimed full credit for the Kota-Bundi Greenfield Airport project, attributing its foundational steps to his Congress government’s tenure.
Gehlot emphasized that during his administration, critical actions like land allocation and initial approvals were swiftly executed to turn the airport dream into reality. This comes just a day before the foundation stone laying ceremony scheduled for Saturday at Shambhupura site, where Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and current Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma will preside.
The event will also feature ground-breaking for two vital drinking water projects: the Navnera Mega Drinking Water Project and the Parvan-Akawad Mega Drinking Water Project, promising a boost to the Hadoti region’s water security.
Slated for construction at an estimated cost of Rs 1,507 crore, the airport will boast a 20,000 sqm terminal, a 3,200m-long and 45m-wide runway, parking for Airbus A-321 category aircraft, and seven apron bays. Peak capacity is set at around 1,000 passengers, enhancing air connectivity for Kota, Bundi, and the broader Hadoti belt.
This development is expected to catalyze tourism, business, and economic growth in the area. Gehlot recalled how Congress leader Rahul Gandhi promised the airport during a public rally in Kota, prompting his government to act decisively.
‘Our government allotted 1,250 acres of land free of cost in 2021 for the Kota airport project,’ Gehlot stated. In 2022, they approved Rs 120 crore to relocate power lines essential for construction.
He accused the central government of stalling the project for nearly four years due to delays. With the foundation now underway, Gehlot hopes for swift, high-quality completion.
Gehlot also highlighted Congress efforts to position Kota as a tourism hub, citing the Chambal Riverfront project aimed at attracting visitors. He criticized the current BJP government for neglecting its development, including restaurants and amenities.
‘Rajasthan government must prioritize riverfront expansion and maintenance to boost Hadoti tourism and make the airport project truly impactful,’ he urged.
The ceremony will see attendance from Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, Education Minister Madan Dilawar, PHE Minister Kanhaiya Lal Choudhary, and others, alongside local MLAs, BJP leaders, and officials.