Importance of Proper Infrastructure Planning and Construction
Airports need strong, well-planned infrastructure to support heavy aircraft movements.
Choosing cheaper options can lead to safety incidents, as seen in the recent Qatar Airways (QR) Boeing 787 was damaged after the right-hand main landing gear stuck in a drain in Doha.
Successful airports like Singapore's Changi and Hong Kong's new airport at Chek Lap Kok island demonstrate the importance of adhering to robust engineering standards
Safety Violations and Unaddressed Issues
Chennai Airport Example: Previous plans for a parallel runway were dropped due to unsuitable soil findings, leading to the construction being handed to an inexperienced company.
The bridge built over the Adyar river failed to meet safety standards, contributing to flooding issues in Chennai.
Past floods exacerbated by infrastructure shortcomings have led to significant damage and loss, indicating a need for stringent adherence to safety regulations.
Greenfield Parandur Airport Project
The airport will be located in Parandur, about 70 km from Chennai and 57 km from the existing airport
The airport is expected to open in 2028.
A proposed new international airport aims to cover 4,000 acres, potentially disrupting local water bodies.
Adequate soil testing and possibly full concreting of the site are critical to support large aircraft operations.
Construction could worsen flooding issues, raising questions about sustainability amid climate change.
Effective design and management by experienced professionals are essential to avoid safety risks and ensure operational viability.
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