Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the New Integrated Terminal Building at Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair on July 18th through a video conference. This initiative is part of the government’s significant focus on improving connectivity infrastructure across the country.
The inauguration of the New Integrated Terminal Building, constructed at an approximate cost of $ 94.67 million, will play a vital role in enhancing connectivity in the island Union Territory, which has become a popular tourist destination.
Spanning an impressive built-up area of around 40,800 square meters, the new terminal building will have the capacity to handle approximately 5 million passengers annually. Additionally, an apron suitable for two Boeing-767-400 and two Airbus-321 aircraft has been built at Port Blair Airport at a cost of Rs 80 crore, enabling the parking of up to ten aircraft at a time, as stated by the Prime Minister’s Office.
The architectural design of the airport terminal is inspired by nature, resembling the shape of a shell that represents the sea and islands. The new terminal incorporates several sustainable features, such as a double-insulated roofing system to minimize heat gain, skylights to maximize natural sunlight and reduce artificial lighting, LED lighting, and low-heat gain glazing.
Furthermore, the terminal building includes an underground water tank for rainwater catchment, an on-site sewage treatment plant that reuses 100% of the treated wastewater for landscaping, and a 500 kW solar power plant. These features contribute to minimizing the negative impact on the environment of the islands, as explained in the statement.
Port Blair, serving as a gateway to the pristine Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is a popular tourist destination. The spacious New Integrated Terminal Building will enhance air traffic and boost tourism in the region. Additionally, it will generate employment opportunities for the local community and contribute to the economic growth of the area.
