The Union Cabinet has approved the development of a new civilian enclave at Srinagar International Airport at an estimated cost of Rs 1,677 crore, a move aimed at strengthening aviation and connectivity infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir, according to an official statement.The project, which has been approved by the CCEA headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, will include construction of a modern passenger terminal and supporting infrastructure at the airport, which operates within the Budgam Air Base of the Indian Air Force and is located about 12 km from Srinagar city.Spread over an area of 73.18 acres, the new civic enclave will have a modern terminal building covering an area of 71,500 square metres, including 20,659 square meters of the existing structure.
The Cabinet statement said the facility is designed to handle 2,900 passengers during peak hours and has an annual capacity of 10 million passengers per year (MPPA).The expansion also includes an expanded apron capable of accommodating 15 aircraft stands, including one wide-body aircraft (code E), consisting of nine existing stands and six newly proposed. The Indian Air Force will continue to operate the airport’s 3,658-metre-long runway.
A multi-level parking lot with a capacity of 1,000 vehicles will also be developed as part of the project.Architecturally, the terminal will blend modern infrastructure with the cultural heritage of Kashmir, and will incorporate traditional design elements such as intricate woodwork and locally inspired craftsmanship while ensuring efficient handling of passengers through upgraded lounges, check-in areas and advanced security systems, the statement noted.Sustainability features are a key element of the project, including advanced water harvesting systems, maximizing natural lighting to reduce energy consumption and using locally sourced environmentally friendly materials. The development aims to achieve a 5-star rating from GRIHA.Improving the airport infrastructure is expected to enhance connectivity to key tourist destinations such as Dal Lake, Shankaracharya Temple and Mughal Gardens, while supporting growth of tourism, investment and employment generation in the region, the government said.“The development of the civic area represents a transformative step towards providing world-class infrastructure and enhancing connectivity while showcasing the cultural and natural splendor of Kashmir,” the Cabinet statement said.