Patna: Days after Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar reviewed works to develop Purnea airport for civilian traffic, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) has approved construction of the terminal building, which according to officials would be ready in the next four months.
Selection of construction firm in final stages
As per the tender issued by AAI, this terminal building will be constructed at a total cost of ₹33.99 crore. This amount is 23% less than the estimated cost of ₹44.15 crore. Under the tender process, the first bid was opened on September 12 and the second bid on September 27. Now the process of selecting the final agency is in the final stage, after which the work will start.
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Purnea airport to be equipped with modern facilities
According to the AAI, the design of Purnia airport has been prepared by the authority’s architect. This airport will be equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and has been designed keeping in mind the passenger footfall for the next 30-40 years. A total of five aerobridges will be built at this airport, which will provide better connectivity to the passengers.
Construction of interim terminal on porta concept
Before the construction of the main airport terminal, an interim terminal building will be constructed on the porta concept, so that the operation of flights can be started soon. According to AAI, deputy general manager (engineering) has been appointed in-charge of the project and the contractor has been instructed to complete the contract as soon as possible.
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The construction agency will have to deposit a performance guarantee of ₹1.69 crore and a security fund of ₹88.30 lakh. Compliance of labor laws will also be strictly followed at the workplace.
Work gained momentum after Pragati Yatra
In view of the demand for Purnea airport, CM Nitish Kumar held a review meeting with the officials during Pragati Yatra. In the meeting, the CM gave necessary guidelines to all the parties and concerned officials to remove the obstacles coming in the construction of the airport.
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Nepal also to benefit including Seemanchal, Kosi
This terminal construction is an important step for Purnea Airport, which will pave the way for direct air facility not only for the people of Kosi and Seemanchal region but also for West Bengal, Jharkhand and Nepal. As soon as the interim terminal is completed, the process of starting air travel will be expedited, which will not only provide convenience to the local passengers but will also promote the economic development of the region.
