Airport modernisation: TN to submit proposal

Sources said Patel wants an assurance from the DMK government that he will not face the same opposition as he faced while finalising the modernisation process of Delhi and Mumbai airports as there is a better chance of the DMK being able to influence the Left to not come in the way. Such an assurance will strengthen Patel8217;s hands who8217;s already conceded to the Left demand of modernising and restructuring the Kolkata airport through the Airports Authority of India. Given that DMK and CPM came together to block the disinvestments of Neyveli Lignite Corporation, it is clear that the two parties are in close contact over such issues. While Maran pressed for an early start to the modernisation process, these political issues did come up during the meeting, sources said.

8220;Land is a major constraint at Chennai airport. We discussed the possibilities of having a second runway and also issues relating to the displacement of people, something which the government does not want,8221; Patel said.