Ahmedabad: The Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International (SVPI) airport is on track to inaugurate a new semi-automated integrated cargo terminal by the end of this year, marking a significant milestone in its mega expansion plan. With a focus on enhancing both passenger and cargo handling capacities, the airport’s new infrastructure development is poised to transform cargo logistics operations in the region.
According to sources closely involved in the project, the construction of the terminal’s infrastructure is slated for completion by July, paving the way for subsequent regulatory approvals from the ministry and BCAS before the terminal can commence operations. Situated opposite the India Meteorological Department (IMD) office on the airport campus, the expansive terminal spans a built-up area of 33,000 square meters and boasts a formidable capacity to handle 2 lakh tonnes of cargo per month. Designed to accommodate future growth in cargo volume, the facility is equipped to manage various types of cargo, including domestic and international shipments, express courier services, cold-chain pharmaceuticals, and perishable goods.
The impending opening of the new cargo terminal is eagerly anticipated, particularly in light of the closure of the Gujarat Agro-owned terminal at the city airport. The disruption in cargo operations has adversely affected exporters, particularly those dealing with perishable goods. Despite the formulation of a new contract, the terminal remains non-operational due to equipment unavailability and pending regulatory clearances.
The forthcoming terminal is strategically designed to meet the region’s cargo handling needs for the next three decades. It features modern sorting and distribution equipment tailored to support e-commerce logistics, facilitating expedited processing of inbound and outbound cargo shipments.
The inauguration of the new cargo terminal at SVPI airport is expected to herald a new era of efficiency and productivity in cargo logistics operations, offering exporters and logistics stakeholders a robust infrastructure to leverage for their business activities. As the region continues to witness burgeoning trade volumes, the state-of-the-art facility is poised to play a pivotal role in facilitating seamless cargo movement and bolstering the airport’s position as a key logistics hub in the country.
