Ajit Pawar Crash Puts Maharashtra's Helipad Policy Under Scrutiny

• Maharashtra's 2018 helipad policy, aiming for a permanent helipad in every taluka, remains largely on paper.
• The policy gained renewed focus after Deputy CM Ajit Pawar's plane crash, highlighting safety concerns.
• Originally introduced after near-miss incidents involving Devendra Fadnavis, it proposed 358 helipads for safer VIP and emergency operations.
• Progress is minimal due to land constraints, rapid urbanisation, and lack of follow-up by district administrations.
• Officials admit dedicated land parcels were not earmarked, and implementing safety requirements like clear surroundings and trained staff is challenging.

Why It Matters: Maharashtra's ambitious helipad policy, crucial for safety, struggles with implementation and land availability.