Leh, June 18, 2026: Administrative Secretary, Civil Aviation Department, UT Ladakh, Ms. Nidhi Malik, today conducted a comprehensive inspection of the new terminal building under construction at Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Airport, Leh, and reviewed the progress of ongoing airport infrastructure development works aimed at strengthening aviation facilities and enhancing passenger services in the Union Territory.
During the visit, the Administrative Secretary was accompanied by the Director, Airports Authority of India, the Under Secretary, Civil Aviation Department, senior airport officials, engineers, project consultants and other concerned officers associated with the execution of the project. The officials briefed her in detail on the status of construction activities, implementation milestones achieved so far, and the roadmap for completion and commissioning of the new terminal facility.
The inspection commenced with a detailed review of the terminal building, which is being developed as a modern aviation infrastructure facility equipped with advanced passenger amenities and operational systems. Ms. Malik toured various sections of the terminal and assessed the progress of critical components, including the arrival and departure halls, check-in counters, security screening areas, baggage handling systems, passenger waiting lounges, boarding gates, aerobridges, escalators, elevators and other facilities designed to provide a seamless travel experience for passengers.
Officials informed the Administrative Secretary that significant progress has been achieved in the execution of the project, with the majority of structural works already completed. Interior finishing works, installation of equipment, architectural detailing, utility integration, landscaping, external development and beautification activities are currently underway. Detailed presentations were also made on the terminal’s architectural features, passenger-centric design elements, accessibility provisions, energy-efficient systems and sustainability measures being incorporated into the project to ensure long-term operational efficiency and environmental responsibility.
The Administrative Secretary also undertook a broader review of airport infrastructure and inspected various facilities within the airport premises. She assessed the development of supporting infrastructure, including parking areas, internal circulation roads, approach routes, drainage networks, utility corridors, landscaping zones and other essential facilities that will contribute to the smooth functioning of the airport ecosystem. The officials highlighted the efforts being made to ensure that the new infrastructure is developed in accordance with contemporary aviation standards while preserving the unique geographical and cultural identity of Ladakh.
During the inspection, Ms. Malik also reviewed the overall operational environment of the airport, including airside infrastructure, runway-related facilities, airport perimeter areas and other critical operational zones.
Discussions were held on future infrastructure requirements, capacity enhancement measures and the need for continued development of aviation facilities to cater to the growing passenger and operational demands of the region.
Emphasizing the strategic importance of Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Airport as a vital gateway to Ladakh, the Administrative Secretary observed that the new terminal building represents a significant investment in the region’s future and will substantially improve passenger handling capacity, operational efficiency and service delivery standards. She noted that the facility will not only strengthen air connectivity but also contribute to the promotion of tourism, economic growth, trade and overall regional development.
Ms. Malik directed all executing agencies and stakeholders to maintain the highest standards of quality, safety and workmanship throughout the remaining phases of construction. She stressed the importance of strict adherence to project timelines and called for continuous monitoring of ongoing works to ensure timely completion of the project. She further instructed officials to maintain close coordination among all concerned agencies and submit regular progress updates to facilitate effective oversight and prompt resolution of any challenges that may arise during implementation.
Reiterating the Administration’s commitment to the development of world-class aviation infrastructure in Ladakh, the Administrative Secretary expressed satisfaction with the progress achieved thus far and conveyed confidence that the new terminal building, upon completion, will emerge as a modern and efficient gateway to the Union Territory. She stated that the project would mark a major milestone in the ongoing efforts to enhance regional connectivity, improve passenger convenience and support the long-term socio-economic development of Ladakh.
