₹1,677 Crore Civil Enclave Expansion at Srinagar Int’l Airport Gets Cabinet Nod

New Delhi: The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Tuesday approved a ₹1,677 crore proposal for the expansion and development of the Civil Enclave at Srinagar International Airport, marking a major push to upgrade aviation infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir.

The airport, located about 12 kilometres from Srinagar city and operating within the Budgam Airbase of the Indian Air Force (IAF), was designated as an international airport in 2005. While the 3,658-metre-long runway will continue to be managed by the IAF, the Civil Enclave is operated by the Airports Authority of India.

According to official details, the project will be developed over 73.18 acres and will feature a modern terminal building spanning 71,500 square metres, including 20,659 square metres of the existing structure. The upgraded terminal is designed to handle 2,900 passengers during peak hours and cater to an annual traffic capacity of 10 million passengers.

The apron will be expanded to accommodate 15 aircraft parking bays — including one Code E wide-body bay — with nine existing and six newly proposed stands. The plan also includes the construction of security personnel barracks and a multi-level car parking facility with a capacity of 1,000 vehicles.

Architecturally, the terminal will integrate contemporary design with elements inspired by Kashmir’s traditional craftsmanship, including woodwork motifs, while ensuring efficient passenger movement through advanced check-in, security and baggage handling systems.

Officials said sustainability is a central feature of the project. Provisions such as water harvesting systems, enhanced natural lighting and the use of eco-friendly materials have been incorporated, with the facility aiming for a 5-star GRIHA rating.

The expansion is expected to boost tourism, improve connectivity, and stimulate economic growth in the Valley by facilitating easier access to key destinations such as Dal Lake, Shankaracharya Temple and the Mughal Gardens. Officials said the project will generate employment opportunities and strengthen Srinagar’s position as a leading tourism and economic hub in the region.