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In an effort to give a fillip to tourism and improve the air transport network in the state, the government of Karnataka will announce a new minor airport policy this year. The policy will help in utilising the existing idle airport infrastructure in the state, chief minister Siddaramaiah said.
Announcing this in his revised Budget for 2013-14, at the weekend, he said the basic infrastructure for undertaking airline operations in the state is in good condition. "It is proposed to identify a private airline operator for commencing flight operations on select routes, through a transparent bidding process for which certain concessions will be given from the government," he said in his Budget speech.
He also announced an outlay of Rs 551 crore to this sector during the present financial year.
Shimoga and Gulbarga airports, undertaken in a public private partnership (PPP) mode, will be completed during this financial year. A capital investment of Rs 150 crore is expected from the Airports Authority of India for Hubli and Belgaum airports, he said.
Siddaramaiah also announced several other measures to give an impetus to developing the railway network, city gas distribution and development of logistics parks among others in his Budget for the present year.
"The government focuses on developing infrastructure in north Karnataka. The Hubli-Ankola Railway Line and Tadadi Port will be taken forward in coordination with the Government of India. Ongoing railway projects will be completed and steps taken to establish a railway coach factory at Kolar. In the present year we have provided Rs 373 crore for railway projects," he said.
Siddaramaiah also announced that Infrastructure Policy 2007 would be revised to encourage infrastructure development through the PPP mode. The government will develop Bangalore International Convention Centre, with a seating capacity of 6,000 near the Bangalore International Airport at Devanahalli. A special project, in the form of a business park, will also be developed at this site, he said.
A joint venture company would be formed between GAIL and KSIIDC to undertake the distribution of clean natural fuel for transport, domestic and other sectors in various cities in the state.
The government has also proposed to develop a logistics parks in a PPP mode at suitable locations in Karnataka that will help in reducing the logistics and efficient storage system, reduction of wastage and quick supply to various regions.
