Peshawar: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has begun exploring potential locations for a new international airport in Peshawar as authorities consider relocating the existing Bacha Khan International Airport to a safer site away from densely populated areas.
The development was discussed during a meeting chaired by Riaz Khan Mehsud in Peshawar on Tuesday. Officials reviewed initial proposals for establishing a new airport and shifting the current facility due to urban expansion and growing operational challenges.
During the briefing, participants were informed that approximately 2,500 acres of land would be required to construct a new airport capable of handling international operations and future expansion. Authorities emphasised that the new site must be located away from populated areas to ensure safety and smooth aviation operations.
Officials at the meeting noted that the presence of the existing airport within the city has increasingly contributed to traffic congestion, security concerns, and urban planning constraints, as Peshawar’s population and infrastructure demands continue to grow.
Several potential locations were discussed for the proposed airport, including Mathani, Azakhel, Surizai, Mamo Khatki, Naaguman, and Bara Akakhel. After reviewing these options, authorities agreed that detailed recommendations for the most suitable location would be prepared and submitted to Sohail Afridi and Syed Shahab Ali Shah.
To advance the process, Commissioner Mehsud directed the Deputy Commissioner of Peshawar to form a committee led by the Additional Deputy Commissioner (General). The committee will include officials from the Revenue Department, representatives of the Pakistan Airports Authority, and other technical experts.
The committee has been tasked with conducting surveys of the proposed locations and preparing initial recommendations for the project.
Officials said a follow-up meeting would be held after three weeks to review progress on the survey and the implementation of decisions taken during the session.
Participants described the proposed airport project as significant for the region’s long-term development, citing its potential impact on urban planning, improved aviation infrastructure, and enhanced security arrangements in Peshawar.
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