New Delhi: Air Force has raised objection to construction of some multi-storey buildings, including hotels, near its Palam base here as these are seen as a security risk. As part of the Aero City project, at least 14 five-star hotels and other buildings are being constructed near the Indira Gandhi International Airport, which is too close to the Aviation Research Centre (ARC) of Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW), officials said.
"This is a matter of concern to us. We have raised objection over this (construction)," Air Chief Marshal P V Naik told reporters here. He was replying to queries about whether the construction of hotels next to ARC complex was a matter of concern for the IAF and whether it has raised objection over the issue. Naik, however, did not elaborate or specify as to whom the objections had been conveyed.
As per the rules, no construction activity is allowed within 100 metres of military air bases and technical areas, IAF officials said. The ARC base houses aircrafts such as IL-76, AN-32 and Gulf Stream, which are used for gathering intelligence and carrying out airborne surveillance missions.
Asked to comment on the issue, Minister of State for Defence M M Pallam Raju said, "I think all these aspects would be looked into by respective station commanders. If there is any threat, they will bring it to the notice of the appropriate authorities." On the possibilities of any wrongdoings in the construction activities, he said, "Let us not over-react.Wherever there is a defence station and construction is coming around that vicinity, it can always be contained by invoking Works of Defence Act, 1903."
Works of Defence Act provides for imposition of restrictions upon the use and enjoyment of land in the vicinity of works of defence in order that such land may be kept free from buildings and other obstructions, and for determining the amount of compensation to be made on account of such imposition. The Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), which is constructing the project, did not give any reaction despite being asked a number of times.
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