Tezu Airport is poised to witness a significant transformation as it prepares to welcome Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Minister for Civil Aviation and Steel, and Shri Pema Khandu, Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, for the inauguration of its upgraded infrastructure on September 24, 2023. This development marks a crucial milestone in enhancing connectivity and promoting economic growth in the northeastern region of India.
Tezu Airport: A Glimpse of Progress
Situated in Tezu, Arunachal Pradesh, Tezu Airport has long served as a vital link between this serene town and the rest of the country. Operating with a single runway, the airport spans 212 acres of land and is equipped to handle ATR 72-type aircraft operations. The extensive redevelopment project, undertaken by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) at the request of the State Government, is valued at Rs. 170 Crores. The project encompasses several key aspects:
- Runway Extension: The runway has been extended to a length of 1500 meters and a width of 30 meters, facilitating safer takeoffs and landings.
- Apron Construction: A new apron has been constructed to accommodate two ATR 72-type aircraft, facilitating smoother ground operations.
- Terminal Building: Tezu Airport welcomes travelers with a brand-new terminal building spanning 4000 square meters, enhancing passenger comfort and convenience.
- Fire Station cum ATC Tower: The addition of a fire station cum Air Traffic Control (ATC) tower enhances safety measures at the airport.
Connecting the Dots: Tezu Airport’s Journey
Tezu Airport has been a beneficiary of the Regional Connectivity Scheme – Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik (RCS-UDAN) under the Ministry of Civil Aviation. Since its operationalization in 2018, it has linked Tezu to major cities like Dibrugarh, Imphal, and Guwahati through regularly scheduled flights operated by Alliance Air and Flybig Airline.
Salient Features of the Terminal Building
- Terminal Area: 4000 Sqm.
- Peak Hour Serving Capacity: 300 passengers.
- Check-in Counters: 05 (with provisions for 03 more in the future).
- Arrival Carrousels: 02.
- 02 (for ATR-72 type aircraft): Aircraft Parking Bays
Sustainability at Its Core
The upgraded Tezu Airport isn’t just about modernization; it’s also designed with sustainability in mind. Some of the noteworthy sustainability features include:
- Double Insulated Roofing System
- Energy Efficient HVAC & Lighting System
- Low Heat Gain Glazing
- ECBC-Compliant Equipment
- Solid Waste Management System
- Reuse of Treated Water
- Rainwater harvesting is seamlessly integrated with an eco-friendly urban drainage system.
- Use of Efficient Water Fixtures
The Promise of Progress
The expansion of Tezu Airport brings with it a myriad of benefits:
- Increased Capacity: Tezu Airport’s enhanced infrastructure can now accommodate more air traffic, fostering regional growth.
- Improved Connectivity: The northeastern region will enjoy better connectivity with the rest of the country, supporting tourism, trade, and employment opportunities.
- Economic Stimulus: Infrastructure development at Tezu promotes economic growth and overall development in the region.
Tezu, with its lush green forests and the serene Lohit River meandering through, is a gem of Arunachal Pradesh. The upgraded Tezu Airport not only promises better connectivity but also acts as a gateway to the breathtaking beauty of this region, fueling growth and prosperity in the “Land of the Dawn-lit Mountains.”
