Kadapa Airport's New Terminal Building Inspired By Gandikota Fort

Andhra Pradesh’s Kadapa Airport is soon going to have a new terminal building. It will also have the expansion of more services for the residents of Rayalaseema, Andhra Pradesh. In an interview with News 18, a senior Airport Authority of India revealed more details about it. As per the official, the roadmap of this terminal building will be taken from the Gandikota Fort, which has significant historical importance. The official said that the frontal region of the fort will be constructed on the lines of four minarets in its topmost area. These minor minarets emerge from the corner turrets, with pointed circular domes. In another region of the terminal, five massive towers resembling the four minarets will be built.

The same red sandstone will be used in the construction of these five towers, which were used to build the original four minarets in 1123 AD. In addition to these, the parapets (walls of forts) and lattices in the towers of the airport will also resemble the existing four minarets. Lattices are structures that are made of long thin pieces of wood or metal that cross over each other with spaces shaped like a diamond between them.

Besides Lattices and Parapets, features like arches and cornices present in Gandikota Fort have also been incorporated into the new terminal building. As per the AAI official, the commuters will be able to enjoy a wonderful confluence of traditional and modern architecture in this terminal building. The new terminal building will also show the passengers a glimpse of local art, culture and historical heritage.

The new terminal building is being constructed to meet the increasing demand of air passengers. With an area of 16,455 sqm, it is being designed to accommodate 700 passengers during peak hours (350 arrival passengers and 350 departure passengers). This construction will also include associated facilities on the landside, such as a parking area, service road and a new approach road from the highway. It will also have landscaping, and a utility block, among other features. The architectural design of the building will be harmonised with the local context, incorporating elements from the geography, landmarks, etc of the region.