Port Blair, July 18: Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the new integrated terminal building or NITB of the Veer Savarkar International Airport at Port Blair in Andaman and Nicobar Islands on Tuesday.
Civil aviation minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, Union minister of state for road, transport and highways and civil aviation, general (retd) VK Singh and senior officials attended the ceremony.
The terminal building is shaped like a shell, depicting the natural environs of the islands. The entire terminal will have 100 per cent natural lighting for 12 hours a day which will be achieved through skylights on the roof.
Due to a surge in passenger traffic, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) constructed the NITB at an estimated cost of ₹707.73 crore.
With a total built-up area of 40,837 sq metres, the new terminal building will have the capacity to handle 1,200 passengers during peak hours and around 40 lakh passengers annually.
The three-storey building will be equipped with 28 check-in counters, three passenger boarding bridges and four conveyor belts.
Key Facts About the New Integrated Terminal Building
The terminal was built at a cost of approximately Rs 710 crore and is a crucial step in enhancing connectivity for the island union territory.
Covering a total built-up area of around 40,800 sqm., the terminal has the capacity to handle about 50 lakh passengers annually.
An Apron capable of accommodating two Boeing-767-400 and two Airbus-321 types of aircraft has also been constructed at Port Blair airport, costing Rs 80 crore.
The architectural design of the terminal building features a shell-shaped structure, symbolizing the region’s deep connection with the sea and islands.
Sustainability Features for a Greener Future
The new airport terminal building boasts several sustainability features, demonstrating a commitment to environmental responsibility:
Double Insulated Roofing System: This technology reduces heat gain, promoting energy efficiency and comfort within the terminal.
Skylights: Strategically placed skylights maximize the use of natural sunlight during the day, minimizing the need for artificial lighting inside the building.
LED Lighting: Energy-efficient LED lighting has been adopted to reduce overall energy consumption.
Low Heat Gain Glazing: The use of low heat gain glazing helps maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.
Eco-friendly Practices
The terminal’s environmental focus extends beyond energy efficiency:
Rainwater Catchment: The terminal incorporates an underground water tank for rainwater catchment, contributing to water conservation efforts.
On-site Sewage Treatment Plant: With 100 percent of treated wastewater being reused for landscaping, the terminal promotes responsible water management.
Solar Power Plant: The installation of a 500 KW capacity solar power plant harnesses renewable energy sources.
Enhancing Tourism and Employment Opportunities
As the primary gateway to the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Port Blair attracts a significant number of tourists. The new integrated terminal building’s spacious design is expected to boost air traffic and enhance tourism in the region. Additionally, the improved infrastructure is likely to create enhanced employment opportunities for the local community, contributing to the region’s economic growth.
The inauguration of the new integrated terminal building is a momentous occasion for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, signifying progress, development, and a commitment to environmental sustainability. The government’s investment in connectivity and infrastructure underscores its dedication to promoting the region’s cultural heritage and natural beauty while fostering economic prosperity for its people.