Civil Enclave to be developed at Srinagar Airport operational at IAF base

at 12:10 am

New Delhi, Feb 24 : A Civil Enclave will be developed at the Srinagar International Airport which is operated by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) within an Airbase of the Indian Air Force (IAF).

A proposal, worth an estimated amount of Rs 1,677 crore, was approved by the Union Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) at a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi here on Tuesday.

The project scope also includes construction of barracks for security personnel, said an official statement.

The new Civil Enclave project, spread over 73.18 acres, will feature a state-of-the-art terminal building spanning 71,500 square meters (including 20,659 square meters of existing structure), designed to serve 2,900 passengers during peak hours and an annual capacity of 10 million passengers per annum (MPPA), the statement said.

The expanded apron will accommodate 15 aircraft parking bays including 1 widebody (Code E) (9 existing and 6 proposed), while the 3,658m x 45m runway continues to be operated by the IAF.

The project will also include the construction of a multi-level car parking facility for 1,000 cars.

Architecturally, the new terminal will reflect a harmonious blend of modern design and the rich cultural heritage of Kashmir, incorporating traditional elements such as intricate woodwork and locally inspired craftsmanship while maintaining operational efficiency through streamlined passenger processing areas, spacious lounges, and advanced security and check-in facilities, the statement said.

Sustainability remains a cornerstone of the development, with features such as advanced water harvesting systems, maximized natural lighting to reduce energy consumption, and the use of locally sourced eco-friendly materials to minimize the carbon footprint.

This project is targeted to achieve a prestigious 5-star GRIHA rating, it said.

Beyond infrastructure enhancement, the project is expected to significantly boost tourism and economic growth by improving connectivity to iconic attractions including Dal Lake, Shankaracharya Temple, and the Mughal Gardens, thereby generating employment opportunities, stimulating investment, and reinforcing Srinagar’s position as a premier tourist and economic destination, it said.

The development of the Civil Enclave thus represents a transformative step toward delivering world-class infrastructure, offering better facilities for passengers and enhanced connectivity, while showcasing the cultural and natural splendour of Kashmir to the world, the government said.