In a highly anticipated event, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the new Integrated Terminal Building (NITB) at Lohegaon Airport in Pune on March 10. The state-of-the-art facility, a project by the Airports Authority of India (AAI), has been in readiness for over six months but awaits its formal inauguration.
Deputy chief ministers Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar will join the ceremony at Lohegaon Airport, marking a significant milestone in the Pune airport expansion project. The NITB boasts a sprawling built-up area of 50,000 sq mt and is equipped with 10 aerobridges and 72 check-in counters. Notably, three aerobridges will seamlessly connect the old and new terminal buildings, streamlining passenger movement.
While the inauguration is set for March 10, officials have confirmed that the full operationalization of the NITB will take approximately three to four weeks. This delay is attributed to the meticulous process of transferring passenger facilities and essential infrastructure, including airline service counters, baggage screening facilities, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) office, and the customs department office, from the old terminal to the new one.
An AAI official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, acknowledged the challenges in this transition. “Shifting these crucial elements requires careful coordination, and we want to ensure a smooth and efficient relocation process,” stated the official.
Despite facing delays and missing multiple deadlines, the NITB holds promise for Pune’s air travelers. The airport expansion project, with a total investment of ₹895 crore, includes the construction of the new terminal building (₹475 crore), a multilevel car parking facility (₹120 crore), and a new cargo complex (₹300 crore).
Kiran Pisal, a frequent flyer, expressed satisfaction with the imminent operationalization of the new terminal. “I am happy that the new terminal building will soon be operational and lessen the heavy rush faced by the old building,” remarked Pisal.
As the countdown to the inauguration begins, Pune residents and frequent flyers eagerly await the enhanced travel experience promised by the modernized airport infrastructure.
