The construction of the Ayodhya Airport is expected to be completed by September 2023. The new airport will be suitable for operating A-320/B-737 type of aircraft and is being developed at an approximate cost of ₹350 crores.
The development work involves extending the existing runway from 1500m X 30m to 2200m x 45m for the operation of Code-C type of aircraft under IFR conditions. It also includes constructing an Interim Terminal Building, an ATC Tower, a Fire Station, car parking, and a new Apron for parking three Code ‘C’ type of aircraft, along with the necessary city-side and airside infrastructure. The New Interim Terminal Building covers an area of 6250 sqm and can accommodate 300 passengers during peak hours. Passenger facilities comprise eight check-in counters, three conveyor belts (one in the Departure Hall and two in the Arrival Hall), parking space for seventy-five cars and two buses. The Airport will be PRM (Passenger with reduced mobility) compliant.
The Terminal Building incorporates various sustainability features such as a Double Insulated Roofing System, Canopies for energy-saving purposes, LED Lighting, Low Heat Gain Double Glazing Unit, Rainwater Harvesting for groundwater recharge, Landscaping with fountains, HVAC, Water treatment plant, Sewage treatment plant, and the utilization of recycled water for landscaping. A solar power plant with a capacity of 250 KWP has been installed to achieve GRIHA –V ratings. The Terminal has been designed to showcase the culture and heritage of Ayodhya and the state of Uttar Pradesh, creating a sense of place for visitors.
The façade of the Terminal Building, both on the city side and airside, displays the architectural style of the upcoming Ram temple of Ayodhya. The Proposed Terminal Building reflects the magnificent Ram Mandir, offering a spiritual ambiance to visitors. The Terminal’s design incorporates varying heights of Shikhars (spires) to convey a sense of grandeur, along with decorative columns to enhance the fascia of the Terminal Building. The decorative colonnade provides an immersive experience for passengers and visitors, with the interiors adorned with local art, paintings, and murals depicting the life cycle of Lord Ram.
Regarding the development work, Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Union Minister of Civil Aviation and Steel, expressed his thoughts, highlighting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visionary approach to driving infrastructure progress in India. He mentioned that the development of Ayodhya Airport exemplifies the commitment to improve air connectivity and promote tourism in the holy city. Under PM Modi’s leadership, the project aims to boost regional development and honor the rich cultural heritage associated with Lord Ram, the Minister said.
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