Under the UDAN scheme, Kolhapur Airport has been identified for regional connectivity operations and is currently connected to Hyderabad, Bangalore, Mumbai, and Tirupati. The Airport Aerodrome licence was recently upgraded to allow for 24-hour flight operations.
Given the tremendous growth in passenger traffic at the Kolhapur airport, the Airports Authority of India has taken on the task of developing the airport for increased capacity. The development project includes the construction of a new terminal building, the strengthening of the existing runway, the extension of the runway, the construction of a new apron, and the construction of an isolation bay.
New world-class terminal building
The airport’s new world-class terminal building will improve connectivity to this industrial city, boosting the region’s tourism industry. Increased connectivity will not only create new job opportunities for the local community, but will also improve access to educational and medical facilities.
More than 60% of the work on the terminal building extension has been completed, and the building will be ready by March 31, 2022. The work on upgrading the airside facilities has been completed. A new Air Traffic Control Tower is also being built to accommodate future traffic growth. The development activities also include a parking area with a capacity of 110 cars and 10 buses.
Structure of the new terminal building
The new terminal building will be 4,000 square metres in size and will be able to handle 300 passengers during peak hours. The terminal will have 10 check-in counters and all modern passenger amenities. The structure will be a GRIHA-rated Four-Star energy-efficient structure with sustainability features. The interiors of the terminal building will be inspired by local art and culture. The large arches on the front facade of the new terminal building are influenced and derived from the commonly used arches in Kolhapur’s heritage structures such as the Maharaja Palace, Bhavani Mandap, and Panhala Fort.
Kolhapur is located on the banks of the Panchganga River and is surrounded by the Sahyadri mountain ranges. It is a city known for its historical forts, temples, and royal residences of former royals. Kolhapur is a leading district in the agro-based industry and one of Maharashtra’s most agriculturally advanced districts. It is also a market leader in the production of engineering products, refined sugar, and textiles.