Itanagar: In a big boost to air connectivity in Arunachal Pradesh, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) has undertaken the work of constructing a greenfield airport in Hollongi, 15 km from the state's capital Itanagar.

With an estimated cost of Rs 645 crore, the project includes the development work including construction of airport pavements, airside work, terminal Building, and city side works.

The proposed airport is designed for operations of the A-320 category of aircraft and future extension of run way by 500 m length to cater to A-321 type of aircraft, the Ministry of Civil Aviation said in a statement on Thursday (3 March).

With an area of 4,100 sqm, the terminal building of the airport will be able to handle 200 passengers during peak hours, the ministry said.

Equipped with eight check-in counters, the terminal building will have all modern passenger facilities, it added.

"Development Work is in full swing and almost 80 percent of airside works are completed. Progress of Construction of New Interim Terminal building is 30 percent," the ministry said.

The airport is planned for operationalization on 15 August this year.

The terminal will be an energy-efficient building provisioned with a Rain Water Harvesting system and sustainable landscape. The development work also includes the construction of ATC Tower cum Technical Block, Fire station, Medical Centre, and other ancillary works, the ministry said.

The building’s envelope is influenced by the surrounding landscapes. Moving away from the strict geometry of straight lines and angles, the roof form is organic and establishes an instant connection with the viewer, according to the ministry.

The building's interior is designed to emanate a sense of calm to the passengers. This is achieved by providing free-flowing spaces, a hidden service core, and a glass façade that links the eye to the panoramic scenic beauty of the Himalayan Foothills, it added.

According to the ministry, an airport to connect the capital city is a much-needed aspiration of the local community which will also accelerate economic activity in the region.