The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has announced a delay of approximately seven to eight months in the completion of Madhya Pradesh's first full-length parallel taxiway at Raja Bhoj Airport in Bhopal. The setback is attributed to a nationwide bitumen shortage and steep price increases resulting from the ongoing US-Iran conflict.
Project Overview and Current Status
The marquee airside project, which commenced in March 2025, includes a 2,744-metre full-length parallel taxi track, two rapid exit taxiways (RETs), and two link taxi tracks. These additions are designed to reduce runway occupancy time, improve aircraft movement efficiency, and enhance the airport's capacity for future traffic. According to AAI sources, approximately 70% of the work has been completed so far.
Ramjee Awasthi, Director of Raja Bhoj Airport, stated, "Pavement-breaking and dismantling of an old apron lying within the taxiway alignment are currently underway to make way for new pavement and related infrastructure. The removal of the existing apron is a preparatory step for the remaining pavement works."
Reasons for Delay
The project was originally scheduled for completion in June 2026. However, the timetable has been disrupted after bitumen prices roughly doubled amid supply constraints linked to the Iran-USA conflict. This has delayed key pavement works. "There are certain supply issues due to the ongoing war," Awasthi explained.
Key Features of the Project
- 2,744-m Full-Length Parallel Taxi Track
- Two Rapid Exit Taxiways (RETs)
- Two Link Taxi Tracks
- First Full-Length Parallel Taxi Track at an operational airport in Madhya Pradesh
- Project commenced in March 2025
- Around 70% physical progress achieved
- Ongoing dismantling of old apron pavement within the taxi track alignment
- Improved runway utilization and aircraft movement efficiency
- Enhanced operational safety and reduced delays
- Increased capacity to accommodate future growth in air traffic
The delay underscores the broader impact of geopolitical tensions on infrastructure projects in India, as the bitumen shortage continues to affect construction timelines across the country.
