Karnataka MLAs cry foul over 'disparity' in funding airport projects

‘Disparity’ in the allocation of funds to construct some airports in Karnataka turned out to be a contentious issue in the Assembly on Wednesday, with legislators criticising the government for hiking the cost of the Shivamogga airport, Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa’s pet project.

Bijapur City MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal, speaking during the question hour, noted that while Shivamogga airport was sanctioned Rs 384 crore, funds set aside for the Vijayapura airport was only Rs 220 crore.

“Injustice is being meted to Vijayapura in all projects of the government,” he said, accusing the Yediyurappa administration of treating Shivamogga differently from other districts.

Arguing about the need for better airport facilities at Vijayapura, Yatnal said that amenities such as night flights, landing facilities for large aircraft and cargo facility was not provided.

“The said facilities are available in Shivamogga airport. What is the reason for such discrimination?” Yatnal said.

Responding to his query, Infrastructure Development Minister Anand Singh said that the same amenities were not provided to Vijayapura as shifting a high-tension line close to the airport - which was essential to extending the airport runway - will require a few crores of rupees.

This prompted questions from JD(S) legislators on developing Hassan and Raichur airports. While JD(S) member H D Revanna accused the government of ignoring works for Hassan airport, another legislator Venkatrao Nadagouda highlighted that the whole Raichur airport project was put on the backburner.

Yatnal, meanwhile, intervened to highlight that the cost of Shivamogga airport was increased by 15% above the tender rate.

“I smell something fishy here,” he said. Requesting Singh to ensure the same facilities for Vijayapura and Shivamogga, he advised the minister not to provoke the people of North Karnataka.

Singh assured that he would discuss with Yediyurappa to ensure that both the airports in question are provided with the same amenities.