Minister for Civil Aviation Shri Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu Welcomes Cabinet Approval for Expansion of Srinagar International Airport
Minister for Civil Aviation Shri Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu Welcomes Cabinet Approval for Expansion of Srinagar International Airport
Minister for Civil Aviation, Shri Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, has welcomed the approval of the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs for the ₹1,677 crore expansion of the Civil Enclave at Srinagar International Airport. The project, to be implemented by the Airports Authority of India (AAI), marks a historic milestone in strengthening aviation infrastructure and accelerating inclusive development in Jammu & Kashmir.
Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Government remains committed to transforming regional connectivity and unlocking the immense economic potential of the Union Territory.
Srinagar International Airport currently handles approximately 44.7 lakh passengers annually (FY 2024–25), nearly 28,500 aircraft movements, and around 10,000 metric tonnes of cargo. Seasonal peaks, particularly during the summer months, have consistently stretched the existing terminal capacity, clearly demonstrating the urgent need for expansion.
The approved project will increase the airport’s annual passenger handling capacity fourfold — from 2.5 million to 10 million passengers per annum. Peak hour passenger handling capacity will rise from 950 to 2,900 passengers, significantly easing congestion and enhancing passenger convenience. The apron will be expanded to accommodate 15 aircraft, including wide-body aircraft, enabling enhanced domestic and international connectivity and positioning Srinagar as a key aviation gateway for Northern India.
Tourism presently contributes around 7% to Jammu & Kashmir’s Gross State Domestic Product. With improved air connectivity and world-class infrastructure, this share is projected to increase to 10–12% over the coming years. The Union Territory currently receives approximately 1.7 crore visitors annually, a figure expected to rise to 2.7–3.0 crore by 2030 under moderate growth, and potentially higher under accelerated growth scenarios.
The expansion is expected to generate substantial direct and indirect employment across airport operations, airlines, hospitality, tourism, logistics and allied sectors. Enhanced connectivity will also facilitate exports of high-value regional products such as apples, saffron, handicrafts, hand-knotted carpets, dry fruits and horticultural produce.
The new terminal will reflect the rich cultural heritage of Kashmir while incorporating state-of-the-art technology and sustainable design features, including energy-efficient systems, optimal natural lighting and water conservation measures, targeting a high GRIHA sustainability rating.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu stated:
“Driven by Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji’s commitment for development of the state of Jammu & Kashmir and following the abrogation of Article 370, Srinagar Airport has emerged as a symbol of the Kashmir Valley’s resurgence. Last year, I had personally visited and reviewed the expansion works at Srinagar airport. We are going to develop a modern, state-of-the-art terminal in Srinagar within next two years. It is going to accelerate development of the region by enhancing connectivity and strengthening local industries.”
The project reaffirms the Government of India’s commitment to strengthening regional integration, promoting economic prosperity, and ensuring that the aspirations of the people of Jammu & Kashmir are fully realized.