Credai Chennai urges airport authority to expedite clearances

Chennai: Real estate developers' body Credai Chennai has urged Airports Authority of India (AAI) to expedite release of no-objection certificates (NOCs) for projects. Delay in issuing certificates is impacting construction timelines and escalating project costs in the city, it said.In a representation sent to the airport director, Credai said developers are increasingly facing prolonged processing time for NOCs, even in cases where applications comply with the prescribed height and obstacle limitation norms.The association noted that such delays are affecting statutory approvals from planning authorities, leading to deferment of projects. "This increases the cost and hampers development," said S Sridharan, executive committee member, Credai National, highlighting the cascading effect on the real estate sector.While acknowledging AAI's role in ensuring aviation safety, Credai emphasized the need for greater clarity and predictability in the approval process. It suggested the introduction of indicative timelines, improved communication on application status, and a coordinated mechanism to help developers plan projects more efficiently.The body also expressed willingness to engage with AAI to better understand procedural requirements and find ways to streamline the system. "At least five to six high-rise building projects in the city have been stalled," said a developer.Builders also want Indian Air Force to speed up the clearance process. "In Avadi and Tambaram, where there is IAF presence, many buildings are awaiting clearance. These are rapidly developing areas," said Sridharan.