AAI Greenlights Relocation of HF Station to Gorai
The Airports Authority of India has given its official approval for shifting a crucial high-frequency transmitter and receiver station. This important facility will move from its current location in Dahisar to a new site in Gorai.
Government Support for the Move
Maharashtra state government has committed to supporting this relocation project in two significant ways. First, they will provide twenty acres of land at Gorai completely free of charge. Second, they will bear the entire cost of moving the HF receiver station and developing necessary infrastructure at the new location.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation confirmed this approval through an official letter dated January 14. This letter states that the AAI Board considered and approved the proposal during its 237th meeting held on January 12. The aviation ministry itself has also given its formal approval to the relocation plan.
Transformation of Dahisar Land
As part of this approval, twenty-nine acres of AAI's existing land at Dahisar will undergo development as a public garden. This green space will provide recreational area for local residents. The remaining land at the Dahisar site may be utilized or developed by AAI according to provisions of the AAI Act.
State government authorities and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation will facilitate this development process. This assistance may include changes in land use where necessary. Importantly, ownership and Floor Space Index rights for the entire sixty-four acres of Dahisar land, including the garden area, will remain with the Airports Authority of India.
Both state government officials and AAI representatives will work together to finalize further details and establish clear timelines for implementing this relocation project.
Political Controversy Emerges
In a related development, Shiv Sena (UBT) Member of Parliament Anil Desai has raised concerns about potential violations of election conduct rules. Desai filed a complaint with State Election Commissioner Dinesh Waghmare regarding Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu.
The complaint alleges that Minister Naidu has been attempting to influence voters by mentioning government and public sector initiatives. Specifically, Desai points to discussions about the planned relocation of the HF receiver station for air traffic from Dahisar to Gorai.
Desai's letter states this represents a clear violation of model code of conduct rules by the Bharatiya Janata Party. He claims the party's campaign messages and advertisements referencing this project are circulating on social media platforms.
The Shiv Sena (UBT) MP has requested immediate action from the election commission. He wants authorities to take cognizance of this matter, file a case regarding the alleged code of conduct violation, and pursue appropriate legal measures.
