Air cargo complex to come up in Jharkhand

A Memorandum of Understanding was signed between Airports Authority of India (AAI) and the Government of Jharkhand to open a cargo complex at the Birsa Munda Airport, aiming to cater to the business of perishable and non-perishable items. The AAI has promised to complete the project in a year's time, while the State has committed to put in ` 2 crore in two instalments. The operational costs will be borne by AAI.

The terminal building is proposed to be converted into the cargo complex. One of the benefits of this project is an enhanced airport security, since currently cargo consignments are handled by airline officials, using regular passenger scanners. A dedicated cargo complex would use scanners which are more suited for cargo, thereby reducing risks of ferrying hazardous items.

Jharkhand exports green peas and tomatoes to other states, and with the coming of this cargo complex, these goods can be transported in a more timebound manner.