Ayodhya Airport: A Cultural Marvel And Catalyst For Community Development

Tarannum Manjul Dec 30, 2023

In a conversation with BW Smart Cities, Harsh Varshneya, the mind behind the design of Maharshi Valmiki International Airport Ayodhya and Principal Architect of Sthapati, explores the complexities and distinctiveness of this architectural masterpiece, harmoniously integrating contemporary functionality with the cultural richness of Ayodhya.

Q: This is one of the most talked about airports in recent times. Can you share more about the Maharshi Valmiki International Airport Ayodhya?

A: For the last decade, India has seen unprecedented growth in aviation traffic and infrastructure. Ayodhya Airport is the newest milestone in this journey. With a peak-hour capacity of 750+ passengers and four aircraft movements per hour, it will cater to a large population and accommodate the continuous expected growth. A two-storeyed structure, the Ayodhya Airport is adorned with elevational elements depicting the sacred city’s rich history. The ground floor invites passengers with expansive amenities, and the airport operations are carried out from the first floor.

At the main entrance of Ayodhya Airport, a grand stepped shikar stands tall, adorned with brass. This architectural masterpiece follows the Nagara style, outlined with scriptures, presenting a majestic and culturally rich welcome to the passengers. The city’s heritage and story unfold through intricate columns, each laden with profound symbolism.

The mega columns supporting the terminal roof symbolise the Kandas of Ramayana, blending cultural richness into the airport's architecture. The Khandika, symbolising impermanence, coexists with the Deva Gana Patta, embodying divine features. Every column narrates a story of dedication, courage, and spirituality, weaving the city's essence into the very fabric of the airport

The terminal building is a canvas of profound messages. The Bow and Arrow mural symbolises the courage to confront untruth, while hexagonal light particles embody the eternal triumph of truth over hierarchy. From arrivals to skylights, artworks intricately depict the timeless tale of the Ramayana, creating an immersive, sensory-rich experience beyond traditional airport designs. Strategically placed skylights serve as guiding beacons, enhancing wayfinding and offering a sensory experience for passengers.

Embracing carbon neutrality with eco-conscious GRC materials, the design pioneers sustainable practices in aviation. Ornamental work, meticulously crafted in Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete (GRC) after extensive research and technical precision, replaces traditional stone facades and significantly contributes to environmental sustainability, resulting in substantial carbon emission reduction.

Q: What is so unique about the design of the Maharshi Valmiki International Airport Ayodhya?

A: The uniqueness of the airport is to portray the city of Ayodhya through the building. People can relate to the city through the airport once they land. And also, they can relate to the history of Ramayana. The Rs 242 crore project encompasses the construction of a terminal building and the enhancement of airside facilities. The new 6,500 square metre terminal building, designed to accommodate 300 passengers during peak hours and handle 6 lakh passengers annually, features passenger amenities such as 9 check-in counters, 3 conveyor belts, and tactile paths.

Q. What were the reference and key directives given when this project was commissioned?

A: The key directives were to create an airport that not only served as a modern transportation hub but also as a symbol of environmental responsibility, a reflection of Ayodhya's cultural essence, and a homage to its historical significance.

As India progresses into a greener future, the project aims to incorporate sustainable practices from the ground up.

This commitment is evident in the choice of environmentally friendly materials like Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete (GRC), which enhances the aesthetics and significantly reduces carbon emissions. The innovative use of materials, particularly in the intricate ornamental work, represents a leap towards carbon neutrality in aviation design.

The Ayodhya Airport project was commissioned with a vision to create not just an airport but a sustainable, culturally immersive, and architecturally significant landmark that embodies Ayodhya's identity and heritage, strongly focusing on the local context and intertwining the historical significance.

Q: How is this airport different from other airports in India?

A: The Ayodhya Airport emerges as an infrastructural marvel and a promise of holistic community development and cultural enrichment. Beyond its physical dimensions, the airport, with its GRIHA 4-Star Certification, stands as a testament to India’s commitment to sustainable practices, heralding a new era in environmentally conscious aviation.

With a focus on improving connectivity, the Ayodhya Airport is strategically located to facilitate travel for devotees and tourists. The location provides a seamless travel experience to visitors seeking to experience this historic city.

Unlike other airports, Ayodhya Airport was built with an eternal aspect in mind. Every corner of the airport should reflect the values for which Ayodhya is famous. Other airports are clear rectangular glass boxes, but Ayodhya Airport gives a glimpse of Ayodhya’s cultural part before heading for the city.

The impact of the Ayodhya Airport transcends its architectural and cultural dimensions. It serves as a catalyst for economic growth in the region. Projections indicate the creation of at least 500 jobs annually, offering tangible benefits to the local community. This isn't just about connectivity, it's about fostering sustainable livelihoods and empowering the region with economic opportunities that reverberate beyond the terminal gates.