Deputy Commissioner Leh, Romil Singh Donk, chaired a review meeting on October 16 to assess the progress of the ongoing construction of the New Terminal Building at Kushok Bakula Rinpoche (KBR) Airport, Leh. The meeting was held in the VC Room of the DC Office, Leh.

The meeting was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner Leh, Ghulam Mohd (JKAS); Chief Planning Officer, Tsewang Gyalson; officials from various departments; representatives from the Airports Authority of India (AAI); and the concerned executing contractors.

During the meeting, the AAI team gave a detailed presentation on the current status of the project, covering the existing airport facilities, salient features of the new terminal, master plan development (Phase-II), terminal roofing progress, geothermal borehole completion schedule, and other key components.

The new terminal building is being designed to feature modern passenger amenities, including two departure gates, aerobridge connections, escalators, and lifts spread across three levels to ensure accessibility and convenience for travelers.

The review also focused on the geothermal system being installed at the site, which harnesses groundwater maintaining an average temperature of 12°C. This eco-friendly system will provide sustainable heating and cooling, ensuring warmth during Ladakh’s severe winters and comfort during summers — marking a significant step toward energy efficiency and green infrastructure in the region.

Further discussions were held on showcasing Ladakh’s cultural heritage within the terminal through the inclusion of traditional stupas, local art, and cultural motifs.

DC Leh directed the AAI and cultural officers to regularly inspect the site to ensure the quality and authenticity of the traditional artwork and designs being incorporated. He emphasized close coordination among departments, urging them to support one another and promptly address any challenges arising during execution.

The AAI team highlighted several challenges affecting project timelines, including limited manpower, transportation delays due to road conditions, shortage of skilled labour, and pending works such as flooring and false ceiling installations. In response, the DC underscored the need for strong inter-departmental coordination and timely logistical support to keep the project on schedule.

Following the review meeting, DC Leh, accompanied by the ADC, CPO, and AAI officials, conducted a field visit to the KBR Airport construction site to assess on-ground progress. The AAI officials briefed the DC on the status of key components, including lifts, cultural artwork, BMN area, geothermal system, and glass installation works.

The DC instructed the team to provide a realistic project completion date along with a weekly progress timeline and specific targets. He further informed that he would revisit the site next week to monitor subsequent progress.