The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has issued a show cause notice to Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL), the operator of Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA), regarding structural weaknesses identified at Terminal 1. These findings follow an investigation conducted by a team from IIT Delhi after a roof collapse incident in June 2023, which resulted in the loss of one life.
On June 28, 2023, a roof collapse at the old departure forecourt of Terminal 1 shocked authorities and travellers, raising serious concerns about infrastructure safety. The collapse led to the death of one person, prompting the Ministry of Civil Aviation to call for a detailed structural assessment by engineers from IIT Delhi.
According to a senior official, the IIT Delhi study revealed structural weaknesses in parts of the terminal that were not directly affected by the collapse. The report recommended strengthening the existing structure before reopening the old Terminal 1 for operations. The official further noted that the terminal will remain closed until the necessary reinforcements are made.
Meanwhile, alternative arrangements for passenger operations have been made at the new Terminal 1, as well as Terminals 2 and 3.
AAI’s Show Cause Notice to DIAL
Based on the study’s findings, AAI issued a show cause notice to DIAL, seeking clarifications and an explanation for the structural issues. Specific details of the notice have not been disclosed.
When approached for comments, a DIAL spokesperson stated, “Our team of experts is currently preparing a comprehensive response to the queries raised by AAI. The response will be submitted within the stipulated timeline.”
DIAL is a public-private partnership venture in which GMR Airports Ltd holds a 64% stake, while AAI and Fraport AG Frankfurt Airport Services Worldwide own 26% and 10%, respectively.
Operations at Delhi Airport
The IGIA, India’s busiest airport, operates around 1,400 flights daily through its three terminals – T1, T2, and T3. After the June incident, operations at the old Terminal 1 were suspended, and from August 17, flights began operating from the newly developed Terminal 1.
DIAL is required to comply with service quality benchmarks under the 2006 Operation, Management, and Development Agreement (OMDA). With the IIT Delhi findings highlighting structural concerns, the old T1 terminal will undergo the necessary reinforcements before it can be deemed operational again.
Impact on Passengers and Services
Despite the setback, DIAL has assured passengers that services remain unaffected due to the availability of Terminals 2 and 3, along with the new Terminal 1. However, the incident has underscored the importance of stringent compliance with safety standards to avoid future mishaps.
As DIAL prepares its response to the AAI, the focus remains on ensuring passenger safety and operational efficiency at one of India’s most critical aviation hubs.
(With agency inputs)