The Jammu and Kashmir government has taken a significant step towards expediting the Jammu Airport expansion project by appointing a six-member committee with the primary objective of facilitating the swift transfer of the remaining land to the Airport Authority of India (AAI).
The sole impediment in the path of the ambitious Jammu Airport expansion has been the transfer of land held by the Animal Husbandry Department.
Led by Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Ramesh Kumar, this committee has been entrusted with the task of submitting its report by November 1.
The expansion project is poised to bring forth a brand-new, world-class terminal building that places a premium on passenger comfort. It will also introduce an elevated road connecting the departure and arrival levels within the proposed terminal building.
The land acquisition process is nearing its conclusion, with only a few remaining patches of land, which include structures and office buildings belonging to the Animal Husbandry Department in Belicharana, yet to be transferred to the authorities. According to official reports, the Animal Husbandry Department has already vacated 22 structures.
The formation of this committee was approved by Commissioner/Secretary General Administration Department, Sanjeev Verma.
Other members of the committee include the Commissioner of Jammu, the Director of Animal Husbandry in Jammu, Additional Secretary to the Government Civil Aviation Department, Director of the Airports Authority of India in Jammu, and a representative from the finance department.
Earlier, Divisional Commissioner Ramesh Kumar had directed the Director of the Airport Authority in Jammu to commence construction work on terminal 1 building, as the necessary land had already been provided. Furthermore, instructions were issued to expedite the construction of alternative buildings in designated areas like Nagrota, Marh, and Chatha. Alternative land had been allocated to the Animal Husbandry Department for relocating its hatchery and office buildings.
The Jammu Airport expansion project, with an estimated value of Rs 523 crore, is expected to turn the airport into a state-of-the-art facility, capable of handling 4.5 million passengers annually—nearly four times its present capacity. The new terminal building will not only enhance passenger comfort but also showcase the art and culture of Jammu, providing a unique experience to travelers. The expansion project is on track for completion by late 2026 or early 2027, significantly increasing the facility’s aircraft parking capacity.
