Trader alleges highhandedness by airport official

LAHORE:A businessman has demanded suspension of Allama Iqbal Airport manager and an inquiry into his alleged corruption.

Businessman Rizwan Dildar on Thursday held a press conference at Lahore Press Club and alleged that Airport Manager Nazir Ahmed Khan illegally removed his outlet from the airport without any prior notice, due to which he had to face Rs15 million loss.

The businesses said, ‘I have been running a business at Allama Iqbal Airport for 12 years, paying an annual rent of Rs20 million, yet my business is not secure. My shop, leased from the Civil Aviation Authority, was removed illegally without any notice or warning.’

He questioned rapid accumulation of wealth by the manager, saying ‘For Nazir Ahmed, the Allama Iqbal Airport has become a 'goldmine. How did a motorbike owner become a billionaire in just a few years?’

He demanded his suspension and called for a thorough investigation against him. He also demanded compensation for Rs15 million loss he incurred due to the closure of his outlet. He alleged that Nazir Ahmed, who draws a monthly salary of Rs400,000 to Rs500,000, has children studying in Australia while holding assets like multiple petrol pumps and departmental stores in Lahore and Islamabad under his wife's and children's names.

Ch Nazir Ahmad, the airport manager, has rejected all allegations against him as ‘totally false.’ He said the recent actions taken at the airport were fully in line with government regulations and aimed at improving passenger services. In a statement, he explained that the decision to reduce congestion at the airport by expanding immigration counters from 10 to 16 was made under the rules of the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and directed by the PM.

As part of this effort, 12 shops were readjusted, including Dildar's, he said, adding ‘Every item in Rizwan Dildar's shop has been counted and will be returned to him.’ He emphasised that the readjustment was a necessary step to enhance passenger facilitation. He addressed personal allegations, stating his family's petrol pump business is owned by his brother, and his children's education is supported by the family, allowing them to study anywhere. He said that all actions were taken in the interest of public service and in compliance with the relevant authorities.