Gaya Airport Advances Land Acquisition for Vital CAT Approach Lighting System
The district administration in Gaya is poised to commence the crucial land acquisition process required for installing a sophisticated Category (CAT) approach lighting system at Gaya International Airport. District Magistrate Shashank Shubhankar has issued a directive to the district land acquisition officer, instructing an immediate start to the procedure while strictly adhering to the established timeline to ensure the project's expedited execution.
Enhancing Aviation Safety in Low-Visibility Conditions
The CAT approach lighting system represents a precision visual aid deployed at airports to assist pilots during challenging low-visibility scenarios. This technology enables safe landings when fog, haze, or adverse weather conditions significantly reduce visibility—a persistent issue that intensifies during the winter months. The system is particularly vital for Gaya airport, which hosts international airlines primarily during the tourist season from October to March, with visibility problems peaking in December and January.
Financial Approval and Land Requirements
On August 13 of the previous year, the state government sanctioned a substantial sum of Rs 137 crore specifically for acquiring 18 acres of land necessary for the installation of the CAT approach lights. The Airports Authority of India has identified the required land parcel along the Gaya-Dobhi roadside. This land is currently owned by 49 different individuals, making the acquisition process a coordinated effort.
In a recent development on Monday, the district magistrate reinforced the urgency by directing the district land acquisition officer to initiate the acquisition process without any further delays. Additionally, the circle officers of Gaya Town and Bodh Gaya have been tasked with updating land records to facilitate a smooth and hassle-free acquisition process. Emphasizing the airport's international status, the DM highlighted that utmost priority must be given to this land acquisition initiative.
Context of Ongoing Airport Infrastructure Challenges
This new project unfolds against the backdrop of existing infrastructure hurdles at Gaya airport. The runway expansion project, which aims to extend the current 2,285-meter runway by an additional 500 meters and widen it from 30 to 45 meters to accommodate wide-body aircraft, is currently stalled. The delay is attributed to acquisition-related disputes and subsequent litigation, underscoring the complexities involved in airport development.
Aviation experts note that airlines globally are progressively phasing out narrow-body aircraft in favor of wide-body planes, making such runway enhancements essential for future operations. The successful implementation of the CAT lighting system is therefore seen as a critical step toward improving safety and operational efficiency, potentially paving the way for resolving broader infrastructure challenges at the airport.
