Kolkata: The Airport Authority of India (AAI) is set to shift its residential colony from its current location near airport's gate 1 to a site close to the Ordnance Factory in Nagerbazar. The existing colony plot will be converted into a cargo complex, allowing the airport to expand westward across VIP Road. Construction of a tunnel is underway to link the airport operational area with the proposed cargo complex. The focus at the new the residential area will be on transit accommodations for officials and a large campus for Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel stationed at Kolkata airport.
Decades ago, the plot of the new site, spread across 12 acres, was leased to Air India for residential quarters. Following Air India's privatisation, the land was returned to AAI, paving the way for this redevelopment project, airport officials said.
According to plans, the plot will serve a dual purpose. On a 7-acre portion, AAI will construct a transit accommodation facility for junior officials transferred to Kolkata, along with new official quarters for the airport director and the regional executive director (east). A community hall is also planned within this segment to host programmes and official functions.
"Most of the quarters in the existing colony are vacant because most of the staff prefer rental accommodation to avail of the handsome house rent allowance. In the new colony, the quarters have been done away with except for the two top officials and a transit accommodation will be provided," an official said. The remaining 5 acres will be developed into a residential and training campus for CISF personnel who handle airport security. The sanctioned strength of CISF at Kolkata airport is 2,130, of which AAI is mandated to provide housing for 55%.
Currently, CISF personnel are housed in scattered accommodations at Narayanpur and Sharad Colony, posing logistical challenges. The new consolidated facility, expected to cost Rs 210 crore, aims to resolve this by offering centralised housing and training infrastructure.
The proposed CISF complex will include two multi-storied bachelor barracks to accommodate 1,177 male personnel, and a G+5 barrack for 250 female personnel. Additional infrastructure will include a security training centre, a dog kennel, a convention hall, and a dedicated armoury.
Officials confirmed that the proposal for the CISF complex has been sent for approval, and construction is slated to be complete by 2027.
"This redevelopment is essential for accommodating the growing CISF strength. It will also ensure improving living conditions for security personnel and seamless transition for newly posted staff," airport director Pravat Ranjan Beuria said.