According to a PTI report, Scindia noted that the connectivity from Ayodhya airport is expected to experience significant growth in the upcoming days, emphasizing the tremendous potential in civil aviation for Ayodhya due to its profound religious and spiritual significance.
Scindia shared that the second phase of the airport project will involve substantial expansion, increasing the facility from 6,500 square meters to an extensive 50,000 square meters. Additionally, the runway is being extended to 3,750 meters to accommodate international flights. The first phase of the Ayodhya airport, developed at a cost exceeding Rs 1,450 crore, features a terminal building spanning 6,500 square meters, capable of serving approximately 10 lakh passengers annually.
The official announcement revealed that the Ayodhya airport will be officially named ‘Maharishi Valmiki International Airport Ayodhya Dham.’ As per a release from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), the airport is expected to enhance connectivity in the region, fostering an increase in tourism, business activities, and employment opportunities.
The interiors are adorned with local artifacts, paintings, and murals depicting the life of Bhagwan Shri Ram. Shikharas adorn the terminal building, enhancing its grandeur and creating an ambiance of spirituality. Harsh Varshneya, chief architect, STHAPATI said that at the main entrance of Ayodhya Airport, a grand stepped shikar stands tall, adorned with brass. This architectural masterpiece follows the Nagara style, outlined with scriptures, presenting a majestic and culturally rich welcome to passengers. The terminal building is a canvas of profound messages. The Bow and Arrow mural symbolizes the courage to confront untruth, while hexagonal light particles embody the eternal triumph of truth over hierarchy. From arrivals to skylights, artworks intricately depict the timeless tale of Lord Ram from the Ramayana, creating an immersive, sensory-rich experience beyond traditional airport designs. Strategically placed skylights serve as guiding beacons, enhancing wayfinding and offering a sensory experience for passengers.
Key features of the Ayodhya airport include serving as a gateway for pilgrims and tourists, contributing to the overall growth of the region. Constructed at a cost of Rs 350 crore, the airport infrastructure includes the Terminal Building, ATC Tower, Fire Station, Car parking, and other essential city-side facilities. Spanning an area of 6,500 sqm, the terminal building is designed to accommodate 600 passengers during peak hours and serve 10 lakh passengers annually. Passenger amenities include nine check-in counters, three conveyor belts (one in Departure and two in the Arrival hall), and five X-BIS machines. The city-side infrastructure of the terminal building features car and bus parking with facilities catering to Divyangjan (persons with disabilities). Designed with a nod to the history and significance of Ayodhya, the terminal building’s structure is inspired by the architecture of the upcoming Shri Ram Mandir. The terminal building integrates various sustainability features, including an Insulated Roofing System, Canopies for energy conservation, LED Lighting, Low Heat Gain Double Glazing Unit, Rain Water Harvesting for groundwater recharge, Landscaping with fountains, HVAC, Water treatment plant, Sewage treatment plant, and the use of recycled water for landscaping. A solar power plant with a capacity of 250 KWP has been installed to achieve GRIHA – 5-star ratings.