THIRUVANANTHAPURAM:
The expansion of the international terminal (T2) at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport has encountered a procedural setback due to delays in obtaining environmental clearance (EC) from the state environment impact assessment authority (SEIAA).
Airport authorities submitted their application for environmental clearance last November, but it was not reviewed by the state environment impact assessment committee (SEIAC) until May 8, after necessary verification procedures were completed. Following SEIAC’s review, the proposal will return to SEIAA for a final decision. Additionally, with the new government possibly reconstituting SEIAA members, further delays are anticipated, according to sources.
This has postponed the anticipated start of construction for the T2 redevelopment, initially set to begin in April 2025. Sources close to the airport indicated that the uncertainty regarding clearances has impacted the timelines for several critical project elements. “Environmental clearance is essential before any major construction can commence. With the proposal only now moving to the appraisal committee stage, additional delays might occur based on the committee’s feedback,” the source noted. “The airport operator is eager to commence work as the expansion is vital for accommodating future passenger growth.”
SEIAA officials explained that the process consists of multiple stages of technical review before granting final approval. “The proposal must undergo a thorough evaluation by SEIAC, including an assessment of environmental impact and compliance measures. After the committee makes its recommendations, SEIAA will arrive at a final decision,” said a senior official.
Last year, the EC proceedings faced delays after the tenure of the previous SEIAA committee expired in March. According to procedure, all pending applications for environmental clearance were sent to the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) until a new state-level committee is formed.
The redevelopment plan includes the modernization of terminals 1 and 2, the construction of multi-level car parking facilities, retail and food courts, office spaces, new air traffic control facilities, and hospitality infrastructure.
The airport, which is managed by Adani Airport Holdings Ltd under a long-term concession agreement with the Airports Authority of India, has experienced a significant increase in passenger traffic in recent years, underscoring the urgent need for infrastructure enhancements.
This redevelopment also holds importance due to plans for better integration between the airport and Vizhinjam International Seaport, which is expected to enhance tourism, cargo movement, and international connectivity in the state capital.
