New Delhi, Feb 23: The mega plan for privatisation of Delhi and Mumbai airports is on fast track, the government said today dispelling notions that there may be delay due to forthcoming general elections. Minister of State for Civil Aviation Rajiv Pratap Rudy said several international companies have shown interest in the projects. He was talking to reporters on the sidelines of a seminar on aviation operations, safety and environment. ''There will be no delay due to elections,'' he said emphatically.
The last date for submission of Expressions Of Interest has been set as June 4. After that, global technical advisors will be shortlisted who will then be asked to submit detailed proposals for final selection. The advisor will work with the government to finalise new designs for the airports besides assisting in construction activities.
According to the EOI document, interested parties will have to demonstrate their expertise in airport operations and have a minimum net worth of Rs 500 crore. In case of a consortium, only the combined net worth of ''prime members'' will be considered. <
Nearly nine million people use the Delhi airport annually while 12 million passengers pass through the airport in Mumbai. The estimated cost of modernisation of the two airports is about Rs 5,000 crore.

Abn Amro has already been selected as financial consultant among the 11 parties who had submitted bids in the second round of bidding.
Bureau Report