Keshod Airport expansion gets ₹142cr boost: bids open May 23

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has given a tender for developing Keshod Airport in Gujarat, inviting proposals for the comprehensive design and building of a new domestic terminal building and related infrastructure.

Project Aims to Enhance Air Connectivity Across Gujarat’s Sorath Region

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has announced a comprehensive development project for Keshod Airport, pegged at an estimated ₹142.17 crore (excluding GST). This move is expected to significantly bolster air connectivity in Gujarat’s Sorath region, home to major cultural and ecological landmarks.

Capital and Operational Costs Breakdown

Of the total estimated cost:

• ₹123.33 crore is earmarked for capital construction
• ₹18.83 crore will cover operations and maintenance over the designated period

Scope of Work

Also read: Gujarat govt launches doorstep life certificate service for pensioners

The tender covers a wide array of construction and technical components, including:

• Terminal building
• Parking facilities
• ATC tower-cum-technical block
• Fire station and electrical sub-station
• Approach roads and allied works
• Advanced IT, airport systems, and security infrastructure

The contract also includes a five-year operation and maintenance commitment, and a two-year defect liability period.

Construction Timeline and Bidding

The construction is set for 15 months, including a 60-day buffer for monsoon delays.

• Bid submissions open: May 23, 2025
• Bid submissions close: June 18, 2025

Additional Infrastructure Development

Earlier this year, the AAI floated a separate ₹161.49 crore tender for runway upgrades and related works, including:

• Extension and strengthening of Runway 05/23
• New link taxiway, parallel taxi track, and apron
• Construction of an isolation bay, perimeter road, and operational boundary wall

Regional Significance

The project is expected to boost tourism and economic development in the Sorath region, which hosts:

• Gir National Park, the only home of the Asiatic lion
• The sacred Somnath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas
• The historic city of Junagadh, featuring Mount Girnar, Gujarat’s tallest peak