The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved a ₹1,677 crore project to expand the civil enclave at Srinagar International Airport, marking a major upgrade to aviation infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir.
Operated by the Airports Authority of India within the Budgam Airbase of the Indian Air Force (IAF), the airport, designated as an international airport in 2005, is located approximately 12 km from Srinagar city.
The new Civil Enclave project, spread over 73.18 acres, will feature a state-of-the-art terminal building spanning 71,500 square meters (including 20,659 square meters of existing structure), designed to serve 2,900 passengers during peak hours and an annual capacity of 10 million passengers per annum (MPPA), according to a Cabinet release.
The project will also expand aircraft handling capacity, with apron infrastructure upgraded to accommodate 15 aircraft parking bays, including space for wide-body aircraft.
A multi-level car parking facility with capacity for 1,000 cars will be built, along with barracks for security personnel.
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The existing runway, measuring 3,658 metres in length and operated by the Indian Air Force, will continue to support flight operations, while the civil enclave expansion focuses on improving passenger handling and ground infrastructure.
The new terminal will incorporate architectural elements inspired by Kashmir’s cultural heritage while integrating modern passenger processing systems, advanced security infrastructure, and expanded lounge areas.
Sustainability features such as rainwater harvesting, natural lighting, and eco-friendly materials will be included, with the project targeting a 5-star GRIHA green building rating.
The expansion is expected to strengthen connectivity to the Kashmir Valley and support tourism and economic activity by improving access to major destinations such as Dal Lake, Shankaracharya Temple, and the Mughal Gardens.
