Telangana Government Approves ₹205 Crore for Warangal Airport Following GMR's NOC

The Telangana government has approved ₹205 crore for acquiring over 280 acres of land to facilitate the development of Mamnoor Airport in Warangal. This decision follows the issuance of a No Objection Certificate (NOC) by the GMR Group, which manages Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA). The airport is being planned to support A-320 type aircraft under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR), a significant step in improving regional air connectivity.

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has expressed readiness to take up the operational and maintenance responsibilities of Mamnoor Airport. In July 2022, the AAI informed the state government about its plan to develop the airport, with a commitment to bearing infrastructure costs. A master plan has been prepared for this purpose, focusing on facilities needed for A-320 type aircraft. However, the project requires an additional 253 acres of land, which the Telangana government has been tasked to provide at no cost and free of any encumbrances. This land will be essential for extending the runway and enabling other necessary expansions.

A critical prerequisite for the airport's development was the clearance from Hyderabad International Airport Ltd., operated by the GMR Group. Under the concession agreement between GMR and the Ministry of Civil Aviation, restrictions are placed on the development of new or existing airports within a 150-kilometer radius of RGIA until 2033. Mamnoor Airport, located about 175 kilometers away by road, falls outside this restricted zone, clearing the path for its redevelopment.

The Telangana government has sanctioned a total of ₹250 crore for land acquisition, which includes the 280.30 acres required for the initial phase. The District Collector of Warangal has been instructed to expedite the acquisition process to ensure timely progress. Along with the allocated funds, the government is also working to acquire the additional 253 acres demanded by the AAI for further development. These measures are aimed at transferring the required land to the AAI promptly, enabling the next stages of construction.

The redevelopment of Mamnoor Airport is expected to have a considerable impact on Warangal and nearby areas. Improved air connectivity could lead to increased investments and better access to national and international locations. This development is aligned with the state government’s larger goals of promoting economic development across Telangana by connecting more cities to the national aviation network.

Warangal, known for its cultural and industrial significance, is undergoing infrastructural changes to support its growth. Projects such as the Kakatiya Mega Textile Park reflect the city’s industrial potential, and the revival of Mamnoor Airport complements these efforts. Together, these projects aim to position Warangal as a prominent hub for business and tourism, strengthening its economic profile.

The AAI’s involvement highlights its focus on enhancing regional airports under the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) scheme, which aims to improve connectivity in underserved areas. The AAI’s readiness to manage the airport’s operations and maintenance ensures a sustainable approach to the development. This partnership with the state government is expected to streamline the project and meet operational standards.