Panvel MLA Prashant Thakur urges CM Devendra Fadnavis to name Navi Mumbai International Airport after D. B. Patil ahead of its April 2025 launch | File Photo
Navi Mumbai: Ahead of the scheduled opening of Navi Mumbai International Airport on April 17, 2025, Panvel MLA Prashant Thakur has called on Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to expedite the formal naming of the airport in honour of late public leader D. B. Patil.
Thakur submitted an official representation to the Chief Minister, emphasizing the significance of recognizing Patil’s contributions to the region’s development and the rights of project-affected locals.
In a statement, Thakur highlighted that January 13, 2025, marks the 99th birth anniversary of D. B. Patil, with the centenary celebrations now underway. Patil, known for his relentless fight for the rights of local farmers, labourers, and displaced communities, played a pivotal role in ensuring fair compensation and justice for landowners impacted by the creation of Navi Mumbai.
Thakur noted that it was through Patil’s efforts that project-affected families could retain their dignity and livelihoods, a legacy deeply respected by the people of Panvel, Uran, and Thane.
“For several years, the demand to name the Navi Mumbai International Airport after D. B. Patil has been raised through meetings, correspondence, and protests. The project-affected communities see this as a fitting tribute to his memory,” Thakur said and expressed gratitude to the state government for previously proposing the name Loknete D. B. Patil International Airport and thanked the Chief Minister for his support.
With construction nearing completion and domestic flight services expected to commence in April 2025, Thakur raised concerns about delays in finalizing the airport’s name. “There is growing anxiety among project-affected citizens and the public due to political opponents spreading confusion for their own agendas. This decision needs to be made promptly,” he remarked.
Thakur shared that Union Minister of State for Aviation, Muralidhar Mohol, had responded positively to the proposal, and the matter has also been referred to the Prime Minister’s Office. He urged the Maharashtra government to maintain pressure on the Centre to approve the naming before the airport’s operational launch, viewing it as a fitting tribute during Patil’s birth centenary year.
“If the approval comes before April 2025, it will demonstrate the government’s respect for Patil’s historic struggle and the aspirations of project-affected families. The state government must act decisively to fulfill this long-standing demand and bring joy to the people,” Thakur concluded.
