PM Modi to inaugurate Port Blair airport terminal building: On 18 July at 10:30 a.m., Prime Minister Narendra Modi will digitally launch the new integrated terminal building of Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair via video conference. The event will witness the presence of Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, Union Minister of State for Road, Transport and Highways and Civil Aviation, General (Retd.) V K Singh, and other senior officials attending the ceremony in person.
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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.
- With a total built-up area of over 40,800 sqm, the terminal can handle around 50 lakh people per year.
- 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 terminal building’s architectural design incorporates a shell-shaped structure, symbolising the region’s close relationship 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: Skylights strategically placed during the day maximise the utilisation of natural sunshine, reducing the demand 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
Port Blair, as the principal gateway to the Andaman and Nicobar islands, receives a large number of tourists. The expansive architecture of the new integrated terminal building is expected to increase aviation traffic and 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.