May 1 is also Maharashtra's Foundation Day. (Representational)
Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Thursday said the Chipi Airport at Sindhudurg district will be operational from May 1.
Mr Thackeray made the announcement during a discussion in the Legislative Assembly about the development of the coastal Konkan region.
Without making a direct reference to the Nanar refinery project in Ratnagiri, Mr Thackeray said there was no need to bring projects that adversely affect the ecology and environment of the region.
The Rs 3 lakh crore oil refinery project had met with staunch opposition from locals.
"You don't become anti-development just because you oppose such a project," he said.
The Chief Minister said he had directed officials to conduct necessary trials and make the Chipi airport functional from May 1, which is the state's 60th foundation day.
The government also plans to launch a submarine tour of the Konkan coast and turn sea forts of the region into tourist attractions, he said.
Backwaters of the Tillari Dam in Kolhapur district will be developed as a tourist destination, he said, adding that the coastal road in Konkan will also be expedited.
Mr Thackeray said his government will address issues including development of roads, drinking water supply, mango and cashew production and grievances of fisherfolk in Konkan.
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)