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Unable to resist the intense pressure across the city, the Board of Directors of the Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), the company operating the Bangalore airport today reviewed the Master Plan for expansion of the Bengaluru International Airport and decided on the following:
- The process to start construction of a brand new terminal building T2 will be initiated on an immediate basis. The first phase of terminal T2 will cater to passenger traffic of 15 million per annum. The terminal will be further expanded in the next phase to eventually handle 36 million passengers per annum. Associated airside infrastructure will also be expanded to cater to the new terminal. Design for the new terminal building will be selected through a global bidding process involving world’s leading architects.
- To cater to the growth in passenger traffic, the existing terminal building will be expanded. Global architectural firm HOK has been appointed to design the expansion. This added development will take the annual capacity of the existing terminal to 15 million passengers annually.
- A comprehensive landscaping master plan will be undertaken on the city side leading up to the airport to enhance passenger experience and do justice to Bangalore‟s reputation of being a ‘Garden City’.
There has been significant political pressure for expansion, in the last few months. The recent 29% stake acquisition by GVK Power and Infrastructure Ltd. (GVKPIL) in BIAL, has brought in desperately needed funds, a sense of urgency, and political clout. The statement of GVKPIL chairman Mr. GVK Reddy reflects the renewed zeal and vigour with which the expansion will be pursued as well as the goal of building an international airport of global standards.
“We intend to fast track implementation of the new master plan for Bengaluru International Airport. We are excited by the opportunity of creating a new landmark in the city of Bangalore and will ensure that the new passenger terminal combines the best in technology and processes with an iconic design that makes the people of Bangalore proud.”
GVK is the lead partner in Mumbai Airport International Ltd., the company operating India’s busiest airport, Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Mumbai. With an aggressive expansion and modernisation plan underway at Mumbai, GVK has developed significant expertise and experience in airport development.
Earlier today, the Board of Directors of BIAL was reconstituted following acquisition of the 29% stake by GVK Power and Infrastructure Ltd with three new directors of the board Mr. GV Krishna Reddy, Mrs. Indira K Reddy and Mr. GV Sanjay Reddy being appointed.
