Excelsior Correspondent
LEH, Aug 8: In a significant move aimed at bolstering India’s aviation infrastructure in high-altitude and strategic locations, Chairman of the Airports Authority of India (AAI), Vipin Kumar, undertook a comprehensive inspection of Leh Airport today. Accompanied by Anil Kumar Gupta, Member (Planning), the visit underscored the Government’s commitment to accelerating development in key aviation nodes.
Leh Airport, located in the Union Territory of Ladakh, is a vital hub in India’s northern aviation network, both from a civilian and strategic perspective. The inspection focused on reviewing the progress of the New Terminal Building and other critical infrastructure upgrades underway to meet the increasing passenger and operational demands.
During the site visit, the Chairman interacted with airport officials and Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel stationed at the airport. Emphasizing efficiency, safety, and modernisation, he urged all stakeholders to expedite construction and development efforts.
Vipin Kumar directed that the New Terminal Building and associated infrastructure must be completed by October 2025, aligning with the Ministry of Civil Aviation’s vision for enhanced regional connectivity and passenger experience.
“This project is a top priority for AAI, and we must ensure its timely execution to support the broader goals of the Government of India’s civil aviation roadmap,” the Chairman stated during his briefing.
The Leh Airport upgrade is part of a larger nationwide push by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, under the leadership of Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu, to improve aviation access and connectivity across India’s remote and strategic regions.
Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Murlidhar Mohol, has also reiterated the need to ensure quality and sustainability in all aviation infrastructure projects.
With increasing footfall from both domestic and international tourists, as well as the airport’s strategic importance near the country’s northern borders, the Leh Airport’s expansion is a critical initiative.
The upgraded infrastructure is expected to significantly improve passenger handling capacity, operational efficiency, and safety standards.
The Airports Authority of India continues to play a central role in transforming India’s aviation infrastructure, ensuring that even the most remote regions are seamlessly connected to the rest of the country.
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