Israel: New airport planned for Northern Negev
Tel Aviv, February 5
The government will approve the construction of the complementary international airport in Ziklag in the upper Negev, north of Be'er Sheva.
"The establishment of a supplementary international airport is a national necessity given the continuing increase in the number of flights to and from Israel," said the Prime Minister's Office in a statement, adding, "The decision to establish the first airport in the south is significant news for the Israeli aviation industry and even greater news for the entire Negev."
The airport is expected to create thousands of new jobs, strengthen the regional economy, and is part of a broad move led by the government to reduce gaps and effectively eliminate the concept of periphery.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Thousands of new jobs is a big deal. Hope the environmental impact is carefully considered though. Development shouldn't come at the cost of the local ecosystem.
"Effectively eliminate the concept of periphery" – that's a powerful goal. In India, we need more such focused policies for states like Bihar, Odisha, and the Northeast. Connectivity is key to development.
Good move for their aviation industry. Our own aviation sector is booming too, but we need to ensure airport infrastructure keeps pace with passenger growth. Sometimes the facilities at our tier-2 city airports are not up to the mark.
While development is good, I hope the local communities there are properly consulted and benefit directly. Often in big projects, the promises of local jobs don't fully materialize for the original residents. Seen it happen here too.
Strategic development of remote areas is crucial for national security as well. Better connectivity and economic activity in border regions always strengthens a country's position. A lesson many nations can learn from.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.