Airport Development In Jeopardy Amid Land Dispute

The ongoing development of the Lucknow Airport faces significant hurdles due to a land dispute involving illegally occupied farmland. The conflict dates back to the government’s acquisition of multiple villages, including Rahimabad and Mohammadpur Bhakti Kheda, between 1942 and 1951 for post-war airport development. Landowners and tenants received compensation for the acquired land, crops, and houses, but some illegally occupied farmers refused to relinquish their claims.

In 2022, a writ petition was filed in the Hon’ble High Court by several of these farmers, led by Harish Chandra, acknowledging that the land in question had been acquired. In response, the High Court issued an order on May 12, 2023, permitting the airport administration to commence development work without interference from any party.

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Despite this ruling, the airport administration encountered obstruction when it attempted to initiate development on the southern side of the airport later that year. Farmers, alongside what officials described as “mischievous elements,” disrupted operations, delaying critical improvements and services offered to the public.

On September 28, 2024, when the administration resumed its efforts, the obstruction continued, further hindering essential airport developments, including the expansion necessary after the completion of Terminal-3.

Officials remain committed to advancing the airport’s infrastructure, emphasizing the importance of resolving this dispute to enhance public services and meet growing demands. As tensions rise, the future of the airport’s development remains uncertain, with the administration urging all parties to comply with the court’s directives.