Uttarakhand achieved an important aviation infrastructure milestone. Chief Minister Puskar Singh Dhami and Union Minister of Civil Aviation and Steel Jyotiraditya M. Scindia virtually opened the new terminal building at Dehradun Airport. Scindia highlighted the careful planning that went into building the terminal and its construction to guarantee continuous airport operations.
Construction And Capacity
According to Scindia, the new Terminal building’s development was carefully scheduled into two stages to ensure smooth airport operations. The terminal’s overall size increased to 42,776 square meters after the first phase, which covered 28,729 square meters, was completed and the second phase, which covered 14,047 square meters, was completed. The terminal’s overall capacity has increased tenfold as a result of this strategic strategy, enabling it to accommodate a far higher number of passengers and flights.
Design, Role And Key Features
Covering 326.42 acres, Dehradun Airport plays a major role in Uttarakhand’s tourist industry, handling 10 lakh people a year. The airport has an excellent location close to Rishikesh and Haridwar and acts as the air entry point to Garhwal. It combines modern design with the breathtaking natural surroundings of the area.
The new terminal’s stunning architecture perfectly combines modern and traditional elements. Based on the history of the area and environmental beliefs, every element tells a story of the vibrant culture of Uttarakhand.
The canopy-supporting columns are remarkable; they generate a feeling of peace and spirituality and have the appearance of Buddhist prayer wheels. Furthermore, using natural light, columns that resemble the Brahma kamal, the state flower of Uttarakhand, support efforts to promote sustainability.
The terminal was built with inclusion in mind, with ramps, elevators, and facilities specifically intended for Divyangjans to enable accessibility for everyone.
Key Features Of The New Terminal
- Capacity to handle 47 lakh passengers a year and 3,240 people at peak hours.
- There are twelve luggage X-ray machines, four conveyor belts, and 48 check-in counters.
- 500 car parking spaces are available.
- The project is expected to cost 486 crore rupees.
Scindia went into further detail on the government’s intention to improve air connectivity in Uttarakhand. He said that the government is developing the Dehradun Airport, and improving the airports in Pant Nagar and Pithoragarh. And also installing heliports in many areas, soon increasing the total to 21.
