Solapur-Mumbai and Amravati-Pune routes selected under modified UDAN scheme

Maharashtra’s regional air connectivity is set to expand after the Solapur-Mumbai and Amravati-Pune routes were selected under the Centre’s modified Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik (UDAN) scheme.

Union minister of state for civil aviation Murlidhar Mohol announced the selection on Thursday, October 15, saying the proposed services would improve access to important commercial, industrial and educational centres.

Under the revised scheme, states can propose up to four air routes and two airports through a challenge-based selection process. Proposals are assessed with reference to passenger demand, regional connectivity requirements and growth potential, reported The Hindustan Times.

Maharashtra has selected the Mumbai-Solapur and Pune-Amravati routes.

The proposed Solapur-Mumbai service is expected to benefit traders, entrepreneurs and professionals travelling between Solapur, a textile and commercial centre, and Mumbai, the state’s financial hub.

The Amravati-Pune route is expected to strengthen connections between Vidarbha and western Maharashtra. Amravati is an educational, agricultural and commercial centre, while Pune has a substantial higher-education, information-technology, manufacturing and employment base.

Mohol said air connectivity could bring opportunities in education, employment, trade and development closer to people.

The modified UDAN scheme is intended to improve access to regional destinations and support the development of services on routes that may not otherwise attract sufficient commercial interest.

The selection of the two routes is an administrative milestone rather than confirmation that flights have begun. An operational start date, flight frequency and airline schedule were not specified in the announcement reported on October 15.

The actual benefits for passengers will depend on the commencement of services and their long-term viability.

The route selection nevertheless gives Solapur and Amravati a potential new link with major urban centres in Maharashtra, improving options for business, education and other travel if scheduled services are introduced.