PM reviews infra sectors; New civil aviation policy on anvil

A new civil aviation policy is under preparation of the government, a high-level meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi was told on Wednesday amid his thrust on inter-linking connectivity-related infrastructure sectors.

Reviewing work in connectivity-linked infrastructure sectors, he emphasised the need for faster inter-ministerial coordination and resolution of issues, and laid stress on achieving visible results in clear timeframes.

Modi directed strict monitoring of projects, based on monthly completion of targets.

He said he looked forward to a meeting with coastal states to discuss infrastructure, coastal security, island development and tourism in an integrated and holistic manner.

The review focussed on progress of work towards achievement of targets in the sectors of road, railways, shipping and civil aviation.

"The Prime Minister underlined that the development vision of various connectivity-related infrastructure sectors should be inter-related and closely coordinated," a PMO statement said.

With regard to the civil aviation sector, it was noted that a new policy is under preparation.

Modi said states should be made partners in working out and maintaining the viability of new international airports proposed to be set up within their territory.

Expressing satisfaction over the beginning of work at Pakyong Airport in Sikkim, it was noted that with the start of the second route for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and the thrust of Sikkim as an organic state, this airport would be able to cater to a huge demand for air services.

The meeting was also told that 20 projects in 10 sectors have been identified for FDI following the decision to allow 100 per cent foreign investment in the railways.

The railways have also designed and fabricated a new wagon specifically for transport of salt, which will lead to a 40 per cent increase in the carrying capacity.

Referring to Sagarmala project under which ports of the country are to be inter-linked, Modi said it must lay stress on ‘port-led development’ -- which will include various connectivity elements like ports, international shipping, highways and railways.

Emphasising that there is now no delay in decision-making at the highest level, the Prime Minister said it should now be possible to achieve all infrastructure targets, the statement said.

He urged top officials to undertake cyber-visits of all major project locations at least once a month, so that they could keep track of the progress of work on a real-time basis, it said.

Image: Prime Minister Narendra Modi; Photograph: Amit Dave/Reuters