MADC to be nodal agency to set up helipads, air ambulance services in Maha

The state-run Maharashtra Airport Development Company (MADC) will now serve as the nodal agency for setting up helipads as well as starting air-ambulance facilities, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said on Wednesday.

Shinde, who is the chairman of the MADC, made the announcement after holding a meeting of its board of directors, said an official release. Efforts are underway to set up an aviation training centre near Belora in Amravati district, and Tata Group's Vistara airline may set up the centre, it added. Shinde also issued instructions to set up helipads near police residential colonies.

The chief minister also directed officials to complete the legal procedure to take back the control of operations of airports at Latur, Nanded, Baramati, Dharashiv (Osmanabad) and Yavatmal from private companies, the statement said.