Shivamogga Airport stays public: KSIIDC dismisses privatisation claims
The Karnataka State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation (KSIIDC) has clarified that there is no proposal before it to sell or hand over the Shivamogga Airport to any private entity. Chairperson Nanjayyana Math made this clear during a press conference in Shivamogga on Friday, putting to rest speculation over the airport's future.
Mr. Math explained that the corporation had floated an Expression of Interest (EOI) only to assess market response. However, no decision has been taken to transfer the airport's assets or operations to the Airports Authority of India (AAI) or any other agency. The EOI is a standard procedure to gauge interest from potential stakeholders, but it does not imply a commitment to privatise, he noted.
At present, as many as 33 agencies are involved in handling various operations at the airport. The KSIIDC will review the performance of each agency regularly, in accordance with the terms and conditions of their engagement. This ensures accountability and efficient management, Mr. Math added.
On flight operations, the chairperson acknowledged that the recent crisis in West Asia had severely impacted the civil aviation sector. At present, only Star Air operates flights from Shivamogga, connecting the city to Hyderabad, Tirupati, and Goa. The limited connectivity has been a concern for the region, which has been demanding more destinations.
Efforts are underway to launch flight connectivity to Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Pune, and Mysuru. "There is a demand for connectivity to Mumbai. However, we are not getting any response from flight operators," Mr. Math said, citing the challenges faced by the airline industry in expanding regional routes.
Regarding the resumption of flights to Bengaluru, he said Star Air has expressed interest in operating the route, though not in writing. "Going by their discussions with us, we believe they are interested. Flights to Bengaluru may begin operating by October," he stated, offering a tentative timeline for the much-anticipated connection.
On the night-landing facility at the airport, work was originally scheduled to be completed by the end of August but has been delayed due to rain. "So far, around 80 to 85 percent of the work has been completed. It may take another one to one-and-a-half months to complete," Mr. Math said, indicating that the facility should be operational soon.
Responding to a question on the Hassan Airport project, Mr. Math said progress has been hit by delays in shifting electric towers that come in the way of the construction site. A recent meeting between KSIIDC officers and the Deputy Commissioner of Hassan reviewed the situation. The cost of shifting the towers has escalated from an initial estimate of ₹17 crore to ₹22 crore and now ₹30 crore. "I must admit there has been a delay in the execution of the project. I will review it again to assess the progress," he added.
The Shivamogga Airport, a greenfield project, is a key infrastructure asset for the Malnad region. It was inaugurated with the aim of boosting regional connectivity, tourism, and economic development. The KSIIDC's clarification reassures the public that the state government continues to own and control the airport, and any future decisions will be taken keeping public interest in mind.
