Adani Group takes over Trivandrum International Airport; says it is a privilege

The Adani Group has announced the formal takeover of the international airport in Thiruvananthapuram. The business group will now be in charge of the operation, management, and development of the airport.

The group tweeted, both in English and Malayalam, that it is privileged to "serve and welcome passengers to God's Own Country filled with lush greenery, beautiful beaches, and exquisite cuisine." The business giant also called the airport a "Gateway to Goodness".

Adani Enterprises signed the concession agreement with the Airports Authority of India (AAI) in January 2021. It has also taken over Jaipur and Guwahati airports. The concession period for the takeover is 50 years from the commercial operation date.

Kerala's ruling LDF and opposition UDF were against handing the airport to a private company. The Kerala Assembly had unanimously passed a resolution protesting privatisation. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said that the takeover is not for development but to protect the interest of the monopolies.

Employees of the Trivandrum International airport had also raised slogans and protested in front of the office of the Director. They said that their Special Leave Petition is pending in the Supreme court and wanted to know the reason for AAI's hurry in signing the agreement.