EAC rejects GMR’s plan to convert aviation SEZ into multi-product SEZ

HYDERABAD: A committee under the minister of environment, forests and climate change has rejected GMR group’s request to convert its aviation SEZ at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport here into a multi-sector SEZ.

GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd cited poor response from the aviation companies for setting up shops in aviation SEZ as the reason to convert it into a multiproduct SEZ. However, the Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) felt conversion of the aviation SEZ, which is close to the runway, into the planned multi-product SEZ, may attract birds which may become hazardous to aircraft at airport.

The infra major said the GMR Aerospace and Industrial Park, spread in the layout of 253.85 acres, has an occupancy rate of just 11% over the last six years, and if allowed to convert into a multi-product SEZ, within 3-4 years it will be fully operational.

“In view of the deliberations, the EAC was not inclined to consider the proposal anymore, and asked the project proponent to withdraw the same,” the EAC said in a meeting held last month.