The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has approved a significant investment of Rs 11 crore to enhance the stormwater drainage infrastructure at Trichy International Airport. This proactive move aims to prevent rainwater accumulation near the runway and other vital operational areas, thereby ensuring uninterrupted aircraft movements, especially during the heavy monsoon seasons typical to the region.
Project Details and Strategic Infrastructure
The comprehensive project involves the construction of new reinforced cement concrete (RCC) drains and a box culvert designed to efficiently channel surplus rainwater outside the airport's boundary. A key focus will be on building peripheral drains along four crucial taxiways: G, B, E, and F. These taxiways are essential links for aircraft movement on the ground.
Furthermore, a dedicated box culvert across taxiway F will connect the collected rainwater to an outlet situated near the boundary wall. Officials highlighted that the new drainage system will effectively address potential water accumulation near the fire service station, as well as the old and new aprons that serve both passenger terminals. The design also future-proofs the infrastructure by catering to areas earmarked for future apron expansion linked to the new terminal building.
A Precautionary Measure for Operational Resilience
Trichy airport director, SS Raju, clarified that the initiative is primarily a precautionary step. "We have not faced any major water stagnation on the runway. This is a precautionary measure to create a robust stormwater drainage system in critical zones," Raju stated. This underscores AAI's commitment to maintaining high operational standards and mitigating risks before they manifest.
The authority has already floated a tender for the project, which is slated for completion within eight months. In a related development, officials confirmed that stormwater drainage requirements for the proposed runway extension from 8,136 feet to 12,500 feet will be addressed under a separate, distinct proposal.
Rainfall Context and Project Scope
The investment is strategically justified given Trichy's rainfall patterns. Data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) indicates the airport area receives a mean annual rainfall of 844 mm over an average of 46 rainy days. The new infrastructure is designed to handle this volume efficiently.
Key highlights of the project include:
- Cost: Rs 11 crore
- Duration: 8 months
- Current Status: Tender floated
- Areas Served: Taxiways G, B, E, F; Fire service station; Old, new, and future aprons.
This upgrade is a critical piece of infrastructure development that will bolster the all-weather operational capability of Trichy International Airport, supporting its role as a key aviation hub in Tamil Nadu's Cauvery delta region.
