New Delhi, Aug 16 (IANS): The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Friday approved two proposals of the Airports Authority of India (AAI) entailing a total investment of Rs 2,962 crore for the development of New Civil Enclaves at Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal's Siliguri and Bihta Airport near Patna in Bihar, according to an official statement.
The new civil enclave at Bagdogra Airport will come up at an estimated cost of Rs.1549 crore. The proposed terminal building spans 70,390 sq.m and is designed to accommodate 3,000 peak-hour passengers, with an annual capacity to handle 10 million passengers. Key components of the project include the construction of an apron capable of accommodating 10 parking bays suitable for A-321 type aircraft, as well as two link taxiways and Multi-Level Car Parking. Emphasizing environmental responsibility, the Terminal Building will be a Green Building, integrating renewable energy sources and maximising natural lighting to minimise ecological footprint.
"This development is poised to significantly enhance Bagdogra Airport's operational efficiency and passenger experience, reinforcing its role as a pivotal air travel hub for the region," the statement said.
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs also approved the proposal for the development of a New Civil Enclave at Bihta, Patna, at an estimated cost of Rs 1,413 crore.
This infrastructure project represents a strategic move to address the anticipated saturation of capacity at Patna Airport.
While AAI is already in the process of constructing a new terminal building at Patna Airport, further expansion is constrained by limited land availability.
The proposed New Integrated Terminal Building at Bihta Airport spans 66,000 sq.m and is designed to handle 3,000 peak hour passengers and annually cater to 50 lakh passengers.
This will be further expanded by another 50 lakh whenever it is required and the ultimate capacity would be one crore passengers per annum.
Key components of the project include the construction of an apron capable of accommodating 10 parking bays suitable for A-321/B-737-800/A-320 type aircraft, as well as two link taxiways, according to the official statement.