Kolkata Airport Introduces DigiYatra Facility For Seamless, Contactless Domestic Travel
Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport has unveiled an advanced DigiYatra facility, marking a significant leap towards contactless air travel. This technological integration is poised to revolutionise the passenger experience, particularly for domestic transfer passengers, by leveraging facial recognition for expedited movement and heightened security. The initiative underscores the city’s commitment to modern, efficient infrastructure, contributing to a seamless travel ecosystem crucial for sustainable urban development and a greener future.
The newly inaugurated service is meticulously designed to streamline the passenger journey, significantly reducing traditional processing times at various airport touchpoints. By employing sophisticated facial recognition technology, the system enables faster passenger throughput, from entry gates to boarding, thereby enhancing overall operational efficiency. This technological adoption not only improves the travel experience but also indirectly supports eco-friendly objectives by potentially reducing passenger queuing and associated energy consumption within the terminal, aligning with the broader vision of zero net carbon urban centres.
Kolkata’s airport was part of the second phase of India’s nationwide DigiYatra implementation, following its initial launch for general domestic passengers on March 31, 2023. This phased rollout, which began with major aviation hubs like Delhi, Bengaluru, and Varanasi in December 2022, signifies a strategic national push towards digitalising air travel. The focus on domestic transfer passengers in this latest enhancement addresses a specific need, aiming to minimise transit times and improve the flow of passengers connecting through Kolkata, a vital gateway in Eastern India.
The integration of such advanced biometric solutions is critical for enhancing security protocols while simultaneously improving user convenience. By automating identity verification, the system reduces the need for physical document checks, leading to a more hygienic and efficient process. This modernisation effort aligns with global trends in smart airport development, positioning Kolkata as a forward-thinking metropolitan hub. The seamless experience fostered by DigiYatra contributes to making air travel more accessible and less stressful, thereby promoting equitable access to regional and national connectivity for all citizens.
Ultimately, the deployment of the DigiYatra facility at Kolkata’s international airport is a testament to the ongoing evolution of urban infrastructure. It reflects a proactive approach to leveraging technology for public benefit, ensuring that the city’s critical transportation nodes are not only efficient but also resilient and future-ready. Such innovations are fundamental to cultivating sustainable cities that prioritise both economic dynamism and the well-being of their inhabitants, fostering an environment where technology serves as an enabler for a more connected and accessible society.
