Surat Airport New Terminal Leaks After Heavy Rain, Passengers Face Waterlogging

SURAT : The much-publicised new terminal building of Surat Airport, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in December 2023, has come under scrutiny after failing to withstand two days of intense monsoon rainfall, with rainwater reportedly entering passenger areas and creating major inconvenience for travellers.

Surat, which witnessed over 8 inches of rainfall in two days, saw the newly constructed terminal building develop widespread leakage. Passengers arriving and departing from the airport were seen walking through waterlogged areas as rainwater entered the terminal from multiple points, including the roof structure.

Several travellers expressed frustration over the condition of the airport, questioning how a modern facility inaugurated less than two years ago could face such issues during heavy rainfall.

“We expected a world-class airport experience, but today we had to walk through water inside the terminal. It was difficult for passengers carrying luggage and travelling with children,” a passenger said.

Another passenger said the situation was disappointing given the scale and importance of the airport.

“This is a newly built terminal and should have been prepared for heavy monsoon conditions. Water entering the passenger area creates safety concerns,” the traveller added.

The new terminal building was designed as a major expansion project for Surat Airport, with a capacity to handle 1,200 domestic passengers and 600 international passengers during peak hours. The facility also has provisions to increase peak-hour capacity to 3,000 passengers, with an annual passenger handling capacity of nearly 55 lakh.

Designed as the gateway to Surat city, the terminal architecture incorporates elements of local heritage, including traditional woodwork inspired by old houses of the Rander region. The building was also promoted as an environmentally sustainable structure with a GRIHA IV rating.

The terminal was equipped with features including a double-insulated roofing system, rainwater harvesting facilities, sewage treatment plant, water recycling systems, low heat gain glazing units and a solar power plant.

However, the heavy rainfall has raised concerns over whether the infrastructure has been adequately tested for extreme weather conditions. Passengers and citizens are now demanding immediate inspection and corrective measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The airport authorities are expected to assess the cause of the leakage and undertake necessary repairs as the monsoon season continues.