Administrative Secretary, Civil Aviation Department, UT Ladakh, Nidhi Malik, on June 18 conducted a comprehensive inspection of the new terminal building under construction at Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Airport, Leh, and reviewed the progress of ongoing infrastructure works aimed at strengthening aviation facilities and enhancing passenger services in the Union Territory.

During the visit, the Administrative Secretary was accompanied by the Director, Airports Authority of India, Under Secretary, Civil Aviation Department, senior airport officials, engineers, project consultants, and other officers associated with the project. The officials briefed her on the current status of construction activities, milestones achieved, and the roadmap for completion and commissioning of the new terminal facility.

Malik inspected various sections of the terminal building, including arrival and departure halls, check-in counters, security screening areas, baggage handling systems, passenger lounges, boarding gates, aerobridges, escalators, elevators, and other passenger amenities. She reviewed the progress of critical components and assessed the preparedness of the facility to provide a seamless travel experience upon completion.

Officials informed the Administrative Secretary that substantial progress has been achieved, with major structural works completed. Interior finishing, equipment installation, architectural works, utility integration, landscaping, external development, and beautification activities are currently underway.

A detailed presentation was also given on the terminal’s architectural design, passenger-friendly features, accessibility provisions, energy-efficient systems, and sustainability measures incorporated into the project.

The Administrative Secretary also reviewed other airport infrastructure facilities, including parking areas, internal circulation roads, approach routes, drainage systems, utility corridors, landscaping zones, airside infrastructure, runway-related facilities, and perimeter areas. Discussions were held on future expansion requirements, capacity enhancement measures, and the need for continued development of aviation infrastructure to meet the growing demands of the region.

Highlighting the strategic importance of Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Airport as a key gateway to Ladakh, Malik stated that the new terminal building would significantly enhance passenger handling capacity, operational efficiency, and service delivery standards. She added that the facility would strengthen air connectivity and contribute to tourism, trade, economic growth, and overall regional development.

The Administrative Secretary directed all executing agencies and stakeholders to ensure the highest standards of quality, safety, and workmanship during the remaining phases of construction. She stressed adherence to project timelines, regular monitoring of progress, and effective coordination among all concerned agencies for timely completion.

Reiterating the Administration’s commitment to developing modern aviation infrastructure in Ladakh, Malik expressed satisfaction with the progress achieved and conveyed confidence that the new terminal building would emerge as an efficient and world-class gateway to the Union Territory.