Delhi Airport Plans Multi-Modal Transport Hub Near Aerocity, Confirms Operator

In a move aimed at providing an advanced and integrated transport experience for flyers, sources from the Delhi government and the Indian aviation industry have revealed plans for a proposed interstate multi-modal transport hub near Aerocity at the Delhi airport. The hub is set to cover approximately 3.5 acres and will integrate bus, metro, and air services to enhance passenger convenience.

According to sources, the Delhi government is likely to bear the cost of the new interstate bus terminal (ISBT) at this hub, and the development is expected to align with Delhi city's master plan. However, key auxiliary infrastructure such as restaurants, retail spaces, washrooms, and lockers at the ISBT will be provided and maintained by the operator, Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL). The envisioned hub is slated to be constructed in proximity to the Aerocity metro station.

While the project's cost is yet to be finalized as it is in the early stages, DIAL, led by the GMR Group, has announced plans for the transport hub to ensure seamless connectivity for passengers. The hub is strategically positioned to connect with various transportation modes, including an interstate bus terminus (ISBT), the upcoming phase 4 line of the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), the proposed passenger transport centre (PTC), and the proposed rapid rail transit system (RRTS) station, including the station for the automated passenger mover (APM) near the GMR Aerocity.

Currently, there is a lack of proper facilities for parking interstate buses at Delhi Airport. The proposed facility aims to address this gap, providing a convenient solution for passengers arriving from adjoining interstate cities to catch international flights.

The planned airport ISBT is set to offer passenger amenities that meet airport standards, featuring retail outlets, food options, electric vehicle (EV) charging, transit facilities, comfortable waiting areas, ambiance, waiting halls, business centers, internet/Wi-Fi services, and souvenir shops. Passengers arriving by buses from states like Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Uttarakhand will have the option to alight at the hub and seamlessly transition to other modes of transport, such as the APM or metro, to reach their flight terminals.

Currently handling approximately 8,374 flights per week, according to aviation analytics firm Cirium, the ISBT at the Delhi airport is expected to accommodate around 50 buses and will undergo phased development based on a suitable model to be determined after finalizing the designs.

BS