Aiming major development, Adani likely to take over private lands surrounding Thiruvananthapuram airport

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Adani Group is gearing up for a major expansion at the Thiruvananthapuram airport, including a third terminal by buying land from individuals. The plan is to take over, including nearby commercial complexes. Preliminary discussions have begun. It is learned that the move is to build a road to the airport and a bridge across the Parvathi Puthanar to build a third terminal and a commercial centre. The government had taken steps to acquire 18 acres for airport development and hand it over to the Airport Authority. After the Adani Group taking over the airport, it is doubtful that it will materialize. The Adani Group is trying to acquire other land due to this.

The master plan for the comprehensive development of the airport is expected to be released early next year. Once the waterway is ready, the airport will be connected to Parvathi Puthanar. Passengers are looking forward to the development, including the runway, better services and lower fares.

Adani to purchase Cleartrip

Adani Group is also looking to buy a stake in Cleartrip, an online travel platform. Transactions are likely to take place in November. Cleartrip is now part of the Flipkart Group under Walmart.

Online taxi

The Adani Group is also planning to set up special pickup points for online taxis at the airport following complaints from passengers. The service will be available through online platforms like Uber and Ola. Meanwhile, taxi drivers' organizations are strongly opposed to online taxis entering the airport. There are currently 318 taxis at the airport.