Jamshedpur, November 12: In a move to clear growing public confusion and concerns over the Sonari Airport expansion project, Jamshedpur (West) MLA Saryu Roy has held a detailed meeting with officials of Tata Steel’s land department and Tata Urban Infrastructure Services Limited (TUISL).Â
The meeting held on Tuesday focused on addressing issues related to the proposed runway extension, particularly on the Sonari side, including the church complex, playground, and connecting road.
The meeting came a day after Roy conducted a site inspection of the Sonari and Kadma sections of the airport. During the visit, local residents expressed concern that the runway extension towards the Sonari end might affect religious sites, open grounds, and the main road linking Sonari to Bistupur via Circuit House.Â
The concerns grew after boundary lines were marked by Tata Steel, creating confusion over the areas falling under the expansion zone.
Taking note of public sentiment, Roy urged Tata Steel and TUISL to carry out the project without affecting public property or religious places. He also clarified that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has made it mandatory to extend the runway toward the Sonari end, warning that failure to do so could lead to the airport’s license being revoked, effectively halting all flight operations.
Following discussions, a revised expansion plan was submitted by Tata Steel and TUISL. As per the new design, the runway length will meet DGCA’s minimum standards, while ensuring minimal disturbance to surrounding areas.
As per the new proposal, the road connecting Sonari to Bistupur through Circuit House will remain functional. However, there will be a slight realignment to maintain smooth traffic movement.
Also, the church has been completely excluded from the expansion plan and only a small portion of the playground will be utilized. To compensate, an equal area of vacant land on the left side of the ground will be added, keeping the total playground space intact.
MEanwhile, Tata Steel management has reportedly assured that the ground will continue to function as a public space for sports, social, and cultural events, subject to necessary permissions from the district administration and the company.
After the meeting, Roy later informed senior Congress leader and former minister Pradeep Kumar Balmuchu about the revised plan. He also requested the Tata Steel officials to brief Balmuchu fully to clear any misconceptions in the locality.
The MLA later expressed satisfaction over the revised plan and reckoned that it now strikes a balance between DGCA’s requirements and local sensitivities.
