John Wilbert & Vikramaditya
Port Blair, Apr 17:Officials of Airport Authority of India (AAI) today told reporters at Port Blair that the new terminal building of Veer Savarkar International Airport is 96% complete, with a proposed completion date before 30th April 2023. The officials are hoping that by Mid May 2023 the new terminal will be inaugurated and there are chances that none other than the Prime Minister of India might do the honour.
Once completed, it will be a modern and efficient airport terminal, designed to facilitate efficient operations and provide passengers with a pleasant travel experience, AAI officials said.
A media tour was organised today to showcase the progress of the new terminal building of Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair. The tour was designed to give media professionals an opportunity to gain insights into the ongoing development projects at the airport.
The press briefing, organized by the Airport Authority of India, was attended by Mr. G Prakash Reddy, General Manager Project, Mr. Kurian P Mathew, Assistant Manager, and Mr. Richard and Ms. Vandana, Design Consultants of D.K Associates Andaman and Nicobar
islands.
Mr. Richard, one of the design consultants, explained that the new building’s design concept was based on nature, with a shape that evolves through the sea and islands. The proposed terminal building covers an area of 40,000 square meters, with a span of 240 meters and two 125-meter column-less spans supported by periphery steel columns and a central beam. The building’s roof height varies from 18 meters to 32 meters.
According to officials, the three-level building comprises a lower ground floor with remote departure and service areas, an upper ground floor for access to the terminal building and exit for arrival passengers, and a first floor with a waiting lounge for international passengers. It has been designed to accommodate 1200 peak hour passengers, with 28 check-in counters, including 12 common-use self-service (CUSS) check-in counters. The terminal also features three aerobridges and an apron designed for type C/D category of aircraft.
“For baggage handling, an in-line scan system has been adopted for departure, and baggage carousel for arrival passengers. The building also features an easy check-in process, a seamless movement to departure gates, and minimum queuing. In addition, it has a shopping area, waiting lounge, and is lit by natural light,” officials said.
