Airport Connectivity Part I

It is disappointing to see such a negative and pessimistic approach to the new Bengaluru International Airport. For years we Bangloreans have demanded a new airport, and often blaming lack of development, growth of the city/state due to lack of air connectivity.

Finally the government made way for a ne w airport and we have been rewarded with a large, modern and state of the art airport to meet growing requirements. Where can such an airport be built? One cannot expect a 4500 acre plot to be available on M.G Road. A piece of land so large can only be found beyond city limits. So may it be in any direction - someone has to travel a distance too far.

When a consortium has invested 2500 crores in a project, providing us with what we asked for, how can we as a city rob them of their returns? How can future investors trust a city if it doesn't stick to its commitments? Does an on-time delivery of a project valued millions, deserve a punishment? What example do we set for other such projects? BIAL is not the last project that is going to come to this city. We need a lot more such amenities.

The government has slept soundly for the past few years but then so did we. Why didn't I, you and others rise to this issue of connectivity earlier? Yes we have day jobs, night jobs and often burn the midnight oil, but if we have time to crib now, why didn't we find time then? I know it's not our fault – but hey we elected the government! We all were sleeping while we were denied of what was promised by them.
Yes, many of us will suffer to get to the airport. Let us not suffer quietly – let us relive our suffering by screaming out our frustration towards those responsible for it. Let them know we are watching and analyzing their moves. Let us – citizens, media and NGOs - track with a hawk's eye every road, underpass, flyover, train and bus we are promised. Let us not stop venting our frustration until the problem is solved.

Retaining the old airport is not a solution; it is virtually a disaster to the growth of Bangalore. It will dent Bangalore's image, stop further projects and rob the people of a prosperous future.

Short term solutions prove to be distractions rather than long term solutions, distractions purposed at putting our screams to sleep. But then we awaken to go down the very same bumpy road again.

Our screams for connectivity have proved of use as we see new methods, solutions and promises. I plead, let us not stop screaming, but bear the load until it is resolved!