Nagpur: With the modernisation of Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport underway, the process to monetise 271 hectares of land around the facility has gathered momentum. Mihan India Ltd has invited bids from consultancy firms to prepare a development roadmap for the land, which could pave the way for commercial, industrial, residential and aviation-related projects.The consultant will assess market demand, connectivity, infrastructure and land-use policies before drawing up a comprehensive plan for the site.Of the 271 hectares identified for monetisation, 122 hectares belong to Airports Authority of India (AAI) and 149 hectares to Maharashtra Airport Development Company (MADC). The land is separate from the 900 hectares reserved for airport operations and the 100 hectares allotted to GMR for commercial development, ensuring no impact on airport functions.The initiative follows Union Cabinet’s approval in May to extend the lease period of AAI land with Mihan India Ltd, aligning it with the 30-year concession granted to GMR Nagpur International Airport Ltd.The airport modernisation project aims to increase annual passenger handling capacity to 30 million, a move expected to boost demand for hotels, office space, transport, logistics and other support services around the airport.“We are in the final stages of the tender process. Once the consultant is appointed, the land monetisation exercise will move ahead,” said Abid Ruhi, Senior Director, Nagpur Airport.BOXWhy it mattersThe monetisation plan could unlock a major growth corridor around the airport, attracting investment, generating jobs and strengthening sectors such as logistics, hospitality, transport and services. If executed effectively, the airport precinct could emerge as one of Nagpur’s key economic and urban growth centres.
