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I write with reference to certain issues of importance to infrastructure projects, in general, and public-private partnership, in particular. A recent news report says the existing Santacruz airport will be demolished to build a cargo hub. The effect of privatisation is beginning to be felt too soon. The rationale for which this project has been awarded to private parties, which is burgeoning passenger traffic, is all but forgotten.

The decision of the private promoters of the Santacruz airport modernization is not only surprising but also causes deep concern.

Public debate-so essential for the success of mega projects is completely lacking.

This is more so when there are highly optimistic forecast of the increase in passenger traffic and the authorities fairly advanced in inviting bids for a state-of-the-art modern international airport at Navi Mumbai and, besides this, are even scouting for a large tract of near Thane for yet another greenfield airport to cater well in advance for the increased air traffic projections.

Privatisation does not mean that the need for transparency and prior public debate are given up. Have the government, also a partner in the JV entity, given approval for this idea? In the West, there is generally a public debate even in the preliminary stage of project formulation. Here decisions are taken without even caring for public convenience.

If the new private entity is allowed to go ahead as they please, one may soon hear of its using the existing airport for real estate development — an easier way to make money given the insatiable appetite for land in Mumbai.

Will the Civil Aviation Ministry look into all these aspects in public interest and allay these justifiable apprehensions?

S. Subramanyan e-mail

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