The Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) is all set to undergo a major makeover to make available various facilities to passengers.
As part of the efforts, the two terminals would be merged for modernisation by introducing new systems that are found in other international airports. The airport authorities are planning for infrastructure development at a cost of around Rs 40 crore.
The move follows the complaints by passengers regarding the quality of the services made available at Terminal 1 (T-1) compared to Terminal 2 (T-2) of the airport. Many a time, passengers complain about the low-standard toilets, hospitality, checking system and lounge.
Out of the total proposed investment of Rs 40 crore for a makeover of the airport, Rs 8 crore would be spent on modernisation work of Terminal 2.
ludhiana-based firm Khosla Associates has been assigned to prepare a request for proposal (RFP) for modernisation of the airport. A map has been prepared for the purpose. “We will invite tenders after RFP. The airport will get a new face in two years, said an airport official.
A two-storied building would be constructed in 200 metre connecting the two terminals. The international flight passengers would exit from the airport through the new building.
Currently, there is an aero bridge in Terminal 2.
The passengers could have the aero bridge service after the construction of new building. The infrastructure would be developed to operate two flights simultaneously and provide services to passengers in the proposed building.
Besides, there is a proposal for two conveyor belts, an escalator and lift facilities in the terminals.
However, the passengers would check in through the old terminal, which would also be modernised having the facilities like modern toilets, luxury couches, VIP rooms and a nursing room.
With merger of the terminals, the T-2 passengers can easily enter T-1.
The passengers on board to other destinations via Bhubaneswar would not have to come outside; rather, they can change the terminal inside the airport, said the official.
After completion of modernisation work of T-2, as many as 500 passengers can enter and exit at a time. Besides, emphasis would be laid on improving the quality of services in T-1. Two more aero bridges would be installed to provide services to more flights. Subsequently, one of the aero bridges can be used by the international passengers.