Govt Sanctions Rs 2,870 Cr for Varanasi Airport Expansion to Serve 9.9M Passengers

The Indian government has sanctioned a substantial investment of Rs 2,869.65 crore for the expansion and modernisation of the Varanasi airport, officially known as the Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport. This significant financial commitment aims to elevate the airport's capacity to accommodate 9.9 million passengers annually, a substantial increase from its current capability of handling 3.3 million passengers per year. This development underscores the government's commitment to enhancing the infrastructure and facilities at one of the country's key airports located in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's parliamentary constituency.

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The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Modi, has given its nod to the comprehensive development plan proposed by the Airports Authority of India (AAI). The plan includes the construction of a new terminal building, extension of the runway, addition of a parallel taxi track, and other allied infrastructural enhancements. The projected financial outlay for these upgrades is pegged at Rs 2,869.65 crore, aimed at increasing the airport's passenger handling capacity threefold.

The blueprint for the new terminal building reveals an expansive structure covering 75,000 sqm, designed to manage an increased capacity of 6 million passengers per annum (MPPA) and cater to 5,000 peak hour passengers (PHP). This development is part of a broader strategy to accommodate the growing demand for air travel in and out of Varanasi, reflecting the city's rising prominence on both national and international fronts.

Additionally, the airport's runway is set to be extended to dimensions of 4,075 m x 45 m, alongside the construction of a new apron capable of parking 20 aircraft simultaneously. These enhancements are not only aimed at increasing capacity but also at improving operational efficiency and safety standards at the airport.

In line with global best practices and a commitment to environmental sustainability, the development plan places a strong emphasis on incorporating eco-friendly measures. These include optimizing energy consumption, promoting waste recycling, reducing carbon emissions, harnessing solar energy, and maximizing natural daylight within the airport premises. Such initiatives highlight the project's holistic approach towards modernization while being mindful of environmental conservation.

This ambitious project marks a significant milestone in India's aviation sector, aiming to transform Varanasi airport into a state-of-the-art facility capable of handling a surge in passenger traffic. With these upgrades, the airport is poised to play a pivotal role in boosting tourism and economic growth in the region while ensuring sustainable development practices are firmly in place.