New Delhi, Mar 10 (PTI) The Cabinet on Tuesday approved a proposal to declare Madurai Airport as an international airport.
Madurai is a prominent city in Tamil Nadu and Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the decision was taken keeping in mind the aspirations of the people of Madurai.
Information and Broadcasting (I&B) Minister, while briefing the media about the cabinet decisions, said that the policy decision to declare Madurai airport as an international airport will help bring air connectivity from different parts of the world to the temple city and there is a huge industrial cluster around it.
The decision would also strengthen the city’s role as an education and health center, he said.
Vaishnaw said several airlines have shown interest in expanding their international flights from the airport.
Madurai Airport is one of the oldest airports in Tamil Nadu.
Upgrading Madurai Airport to international status would enhance regional connectivity, promote trade and promote economic development in the region. The airport’s potential to attract international pilgrims and businesses is in line with the city’s historical importance, an official release said.
According to the minister, it would also improve connectivity to important pilgrimage sites — Meenakshi Amman Temple, Koodal Azhagar Temple, Thirupparankundram Murugan Temple, Palamudhircholai Murugan Temple and Rameswaram.
