Tamil Nadu: New Trichy Airport Terminal Set For Operational Launch In June, To Ease Travel To Sri Rangam

The new terminal at Trichy International Airport, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 2 January, is anticipated to become operational by mid-June.

Trichy, an ancient city in Tamil Nadu, is situated on the banks of the River Kaveri. It is renowned for the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, a prominent Hindu pilgrimage centre on Sri Rangam island, surrounded by Cauvery and Kollidam rivers.

This temple is noted for its remarkable architecture and ornamentation, is the largest functioning temple in the world and is a masterpiece of human creative genius. It holds the distinction of being the foremost among the 108 Divya Desams dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

The terminal's design, featuring a geometrical roof and façade, mirrors the local heritage and temple architecture, particularly the rajagopuram of Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple. It includes modern amenities to enhance the passenger experience.

Constructed at Rs 1,112 crore, the new terminal can accommodate approximately 4.5 million passengers annually, tripling the capacity of the current facility. It is designed to handle peak-hour traffic of 3,480 passengers, including 2,400 international and 1,080 domestic travellers.

Spanning 75,000 square metres, the terminal features two levels, with the arrival lounge on the ground floor and the departure area above.

Travelers and the travel industry have been eagerly awaiting the terminal's operational start, nearly five months after its formal inauguration.

According to The Hindu report, the infrastructure is ready, with a tentative operational date of 11 June. However, the commencement of operations will require coordination with various agencies and stakeholders to ensure a seamless transition from the old terminal.

Prime Minister Modi laid the foundation stone for the new terminal building on 10 February 2019.