The Maharashtra government is prioritizing the early resumption of flight services between Chipi Airport in Sindhudurg district and Mumbai, Fisheries and Ports Minister Nitesh Rane announced on Tuesday. Speaking at a review meeting in Mantralaya, Rane directed authorities to secure all necessary approvals within one month to expedite the project. He described the initiative as an "emotional issue" for the people of Sindhudurg, emphasizing its potential to enhance connectivity and boost tourism in the coastal Konkan region.
Chipi Airport, officially known as Sindhudurg Airport, is a greenfield facility inaugurated in October 2021 under the central government's UDAN scheme to promote regional air connectivity. Developed at a cost of around INR 800 crore by the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation in partnership with private entities, the airport has been non-operational for flights to Mumbai due to technical issues and the suspension of services by operator Alliance Air in late 2024.
The state cabinet approved the resumption of operations in August 2025, with efforts underway to restart services ahead of key tourism seasons. Rane highlighted that the government would provide Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) funding similar to UDAN to support the route, underscoring Sindhudurg's status as a prime tourism destination with attractions like Sindhudurg Fort and Tarkarli beaches.
During the meeting, Rane stressed the need for completing airport infrastructure, including beautification works, to ensure long-term viability. He noted that improved air links would not only aid tourists but also stimulate local businesses and economic growth in the district, which has seen limited connectivity options since the flight halt. The minister's directives aim to address past disruptions and position Chipi as a vital gateway for the Konkan coastline.
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In a related development, Rane instructed officials to accelerate the construction of the Navi Mumbai International Marina at Belapur Sector 15, targeting operational status by March 2026. Developed by the Maharashtra Maritime Board in collaboration with Navi Mumbai International Marina Pvt. Ltd., the project has already received all required permissions and includes modern amenities for water sports, recreational activities, and commercial units.
The minister urged the contractor to plan leasing for on-site commercial spaces promptly, stating that the marina would enhance marine tourism, create employment opportunities, and establish Navi Mumbai as a hub for the blue economy. This initiative, Maharashtra's first international marina, is expected to attract both domestic and global visitors, further integrating coastal development with the state's tourism agenda.
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