AAI Relocates Residential Quarters: The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is undertaking a major infrastructure overhaul at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International (NSCBI) Airport, Kolkata, including the relocation of its staff residential colony currently located near Gate 1 of the airport. The colony is being shifted to Nagerbazar, a key North Kolkata neighborhood, to make way for a new cargo handling facility and enable westward expansion of the airport across VIP Road.
The move aligns with AAI’s broader objective to modernize logistics infrastructure and improve operational efficiency in one of India’s busiest airports.
Nagerbazar: The New Address for AAI Staff and Security Forces
The new site, spanning nearly 12 acres, is situated adjacent to the Ordnance Factory in South Dum Dum, a strategically placed urban zone with robust civic amenities and transport connectivity. Of the total area, around seven acres will be allocated for housing AAI officials — including transit accommodation for junior staff and residences for senior officials such as the airport director and regional executive director.
The remaining five acres will host housing and training infrastructure for CISF personnel, who manage security operations at the airport. This would consolidate the currently dispersed accommodation units across the city.
External reference: AAI Projects & Planning
Why the Move? Optimizing Land for Cargo and Logistics
The relocation of the residential complex is essential to AAI’s ongoing efforts to expand the cargo operations zone of the airport. The land freed up by this move will be repurposed to create a modern cargo terminal, facilitating quicker freight movement and improving the airport’s commercial capabilities.
Additionally, construction of a dedicated tunnel connecting the main operational area with the proposed cargo hub is already underway. This underground link will allow for seamless logistics and avoid surface-level disruptions.
External reference: Ministry of Civil Aviation – Infrastructure
Urban Infrastructure and Connectivity of Nagerbazar
Nagerbazar, a prominent locality under the South Dum Dum Municipality, is known for its dense residential zones, educational institutions, shopping arcades, and proximity to major roadways like Jessore Road and VIP Road. Located just about 4 kilometers from the airport terminal, it offers easy access to Dum Dum Junction, Dum Dum Metro Station, and local bus networks.
This accessibility makes Nagerbazar a suitable relocation site, especially for airport staff requiring quick transit to NSCBI Airport.
External reference: South Dum Dum Municipality
AAI’s Housing Plan: Features and Facilities
The proposed AAI housing development in Nagerbazar will include:
- Fully furnished transit quarters for temporary postings
- Permanent residences for senior officials
- A dedicated community hall for official gatherings
- CISF training and residential blocks
- Green space and controlled access security features
The total project is estimated to cost approximately ₹210 crore, reflecting the government’s commitment to upgrading aviation-linked housing and logistics infrastructure.
External reference: CISF Role in Airport Security
Broader Urban and Regulatory Implications
As part of its airport zoning policy, AAI has expanded the high-rise clearance requirement zone from 10 km to 20 km around the NSCBI Airport. This move mandates that all new constructions — particularly multi-storeyed buildings within this zone — must seek prior AAI clearance to ensure aviation safety.
This regulation impacts municipalities like Bidhannagar, South Dum Dum, New Barrackpore, and parts of Barasat, where high-rise construction activity has been on the rise.
External reference: Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) – Aerodrome Safeguarding
AAI Relocates Residential Quarters: Stakeholder Reactions
- AAI Employees have welcomed the move, especially those who earlier preferred rented accommodation over aging colony quarters.
- CISF Personnel will benefit from consolidated infrastructure, allowing better coordination and access to training.
- Local Residents of Nagerbazar express mixed feelings — optimistic about infrastructure development but concerned about traffic and congestion.
The AAI has assured the public that all construction will follow urban development norms and prioritize environmental and civic balance.
Timeline and Next Steps
- Colony Vacating Phase – Expected to conclude within the fiscal year
- Construction Launch at Nagerbazar – Commencing shortly after site clearance
- Tunnel Completion – Parallel execution with cargo hub planning
- Cargo Complex Operationalisation – Estimated post-2026
Summary Table
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Old Site | Gate 1, NSCBI Airport |
| New Site | Nagerbazar, South Dum Dum |
| Total Area | 12 acres |
| CISF Facilities | Residential + Training (5 acres) |
| AAI Transit & Staff Housing | 7 acres |
| Cargo Complex Plan | Post-relocation use of airport-adjacent land |
| Regulatory Expansion | High-rise clearance zone up to 20 km |
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