The redevelopment project was awarded to GMR Airports Limited in 2018. Although the matter pending before the Supreme Court received a favourable judgment last year, approval for the handover of the airport to the company is still awaited. The delay continues to be a significant impediment to the timely implementation and execution of the redevelopment project, AID says.The industry body said large-scale investments committed during the third edition of Advantage Vidarbha-Khasdar Audyogik Mahotsav in February required upgraded aviation infrastructure for timely execution. The summit saw investment commitments and memorandums of understanding worth approximately Rs 42,000 crore.Among the major announcements was a “game changer” agreement with Mahindra & Mahindra involving a proposed Rs15,000 crore integrated manufacturing plant in Vidarbha. The association noted that several states competed for the project before the region emerged as a preferred destination.The event drew participation from industrial leaders, multinational representatives, micro, small and medium enterprises, and public sector undertakings, reflecting what the association described as growing investor confidence in Vidarbha. It also initiated steps to establish a Skill and Logistics University in Nagpur district to support emerging industrial requirements.Despite this momentum, AID said concerns over airport infrastructure were repeatedly flagged by investors. The letter to the PM emphasised that enhanced air connectivity and expanded airport infrastructure are essential to support executive travel, air cargo movement, and seamless logistics operations, the letter said.
