THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The government has authorized the acquisition of 1039.876 hectares (2570 acres) in Erumeli South and Manimala villages, Kottayam district for the Sabarimala Greenfield airport project. This decision follows recommendations from an expert committee which evaluated a social impact study report.

As per the committee's suggestion, the government is to devise a comprehensive rehabilitation package for affected people with clear monitoring. If the proposed land includes paddy fields, conversion must adhere to the procedures outlined in the Kerala Paddy Wetland Conservation Act, 2008 and related rules.

Extensive assessments of the airport project's social benefits and impacts were conducted by the committee. Engagements with locals and scrutiny of complaints and petitions were part of this evaluation. The committee's report indicates that most locals support the airport project, provided they receive fair compensation and timely rehabilitation.

Furthermore, the committee has endorsed the Central Government's Ministry of Forests and Environment's affirmation that the project area is suitable for the airport.