T’puram: Restrictions imposed by Tamil Nadu govt on the movement of construction-grade stone aggregates are likely to affect the ongoing Rs 600-crore airside development works at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, raising concerns over possible delays to one of Kerala’s most significant aviation infrastructure projects.The immediate challenge is the shortage of nearly 3 lakh metric tonnes of high-density stone aggregates and construction materials required for the reconstruction and expansion of the airport apron, the operational area where aircraft are parked, loaded, re-fuelled and serviced. Airport sources said the specialised material is indispensable for apron construction because it must meet stringent engineering and aviation safety standards. If it is not procured immediately, the entire work will come to a halt, sources said.The project is currently progressing with existing stockpiles of aggregates.The high-density aggregates required for the project are sourced only from select quarries in Tamil Nadu, as comparable material is not available in sufficient quality or quantity in Kerala.The state govt has reportedly taken up the matter with the Tamil Nadu govt to resolve the restrictions and facilitate the movement of construction materials. However, there is no indication yet on when normal supplies will resume, leaving contractors uncertain about maintaining the current pace of work.The airside package, estimated at around Rs 600 crore, is the first phase of Adani Airport Holdings Ltd’s ambitious Project Anantha, a comprehensive modernisation programme aimed at transforming Thiruvananthapuram International Airport into a future-ready aviation hub. The first phase is targeted for completion by the end of 2026.Meanwhile, the much larger redevelopment of the international Terminal 2 is awaiting environmental clearance. The proposal was recently examined by State Expert Appraisal Committee, which sought additional clarifications and a revised Corporate Environmental Responsibility proposal before making its recommendation. Airport authorities expect the matter to be reconsidered shortly, after which it will be placed before State Environment Impact Assessment Authority for final environmental clearance. Construction of the terminal expansion is expected to commence once the statutory approvals are secured.
