JSJ & Compuwalah,
We are slightly digressing from the discussion topic but nevertheless it is important in this context.
As per the information I have the Central Environment Ministry had given in-principle approval to the airport project in early 2009.
However since Mr. Jairam took over as Environment Minister in the new govt./cabinet, the ministry basically took a u-turn and asked CIDCO to do an Environmental Impact Survey of the project. Mangroves
So IIT Bombay group was roped in and a survey initiated. It is supposed to take 1 year so maybe middle of next year they will submit the survey report.
CIDCO in the meanwhile has realised the the Environment Ministry will make a big issue of the mangroves so they have already roped in consultants to start the project of planting mangroves.
You could search for "cidco mangroves" in google news and you will see an article in mumbai mirror newspaper.
Apparently CM Mr. Chavan wants the airport along with many other projects to complete before the 2014 elections.
As I see it, 75% land is with CIDCO/Govt. They need 25%. They need environmental clearance. So two big obstacles.
I see the transharbour link as a more important project which has more hurdles.
There is also a plan to setup an innovation park (a huge project) & a theme park near panvel. But again lets not put the hype