Rajkot International Airport, which has been operating from a temporary terminal at Hirasar, encountered a significant structural setback on Tuesday when a 15-foot wall adjacent to the runway collapsed due to heavy rainfall.
This incident adds to a series of delays and complications faced by the airport, which has struggled to transition from its provisional setup to a permanent facility. The airport, currently utilising a terminal originally designed for cargo operations, was anticipated to replace it with a permanent structure by February. However, this deadline has been repeatedly extended, with the latest projected date being August 15. Despite these setbacks, plans to commence international flights by October remain intact. Recent structural issues at the airport include a previous incident where a canopy near the temporary terminal collapsed, fortunately without causing injuries.
The collapse of the newly constructed wall on Tuesday raises concerns about the ongoing construction quality and project management at Hirasar Airport. Sources indicate that the heavy rain exacerbated the situation, yet the contractor responsible for the terminal’s construction has not been penalised, with airport authorities maintaining that the permanent terminal is under active construction and will eventually support international operations.
The repeated structural failures and ongoing delays highlight the need for a reassessment of construction practices and project oversight. The lack of timely completion and the occurrence of such incidents suggest potential deficiencies in quality control and project management. As the airport strives to meet its revised timelines, addressing these issues promptly is crucial to ensuring operational safety and reliability.
