India's second eco-friendly airport comes up at Vadodara

India's second eco-friendly airport in Vadodara is all set to open its doors to passengers.

Located on the city's outskirts, the new terminal is equipped with facilities of international standard. The facility has also been rated by Green Ratings of International Habitat Assessment, the highest national rating for green buildings conceived by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI).

Narendra Kumar Shukla, Project in-charge and GM, Airport Authority of India, said, "This terminal building boasts of several features of a green building. Energy efficient glass has been used. A sheet measuring 164.4 mts has been used on roof top, which is a world record. As a green initiative, sugarcane pulp has been used for decoration at the VIP and CIP lounge. Several other features of a green building have been incorporated in the building."

The new integrated modular terminal building at Vadodara is part of the central government`s ongoing project to modernize existing airports and develop them on part with international airports.Constructed for a whopping Rs 160 crores, the new facility is spread over an area of 17,500 square metres.

With 18 check-in counters, it has a capacity to manage as many as 700 passengers, including 200 international passengers, during peak hours.Shukla added, "In case there are no international passengers or flights then the domestic and international space can be combined and be used for domestic services. Similarly, if there are no domestic flights and we have international flights then the entire area can be used for international services. This way an integrated terminal has been designed. There is also a provision for two aero-bridges while the third aero-bridge will start functioning after the relocation of air traffic control centre, which is located in front of the new building."

The new terminal is a unique steel structure which is designed as per the advanced building management system.It is equipped with hi-tech security systems, energy saving cooling system, rain water harvesting system, super sensitive fire safety alarm and automatic glass cleaning facilities.A food court will serve delicious food to both passengers and visitors.The new terminal building has a parking facility for approximately 230 cars, 100 Taxis and 10 coaches.

Shukla said, "This design is aerodynamic as suited for an airport. The design has been selected by the Airports Authority of India headquarter which is unique in itself and has been lauded by everyone."

Vadodara being an important industrial, cultural and educational hub of western India, attracts visitors from parts of India and abroad.In 2015-16, over nine lakh passengers travelled from existing airport at Vadodara. The number of passengers witnesses an increase of 30 per cent every year.The new airport will help boost the economy of Vadodara and nearby areas.