Epitome of Architectural Excellence – My first date with the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad

Of late with lot of skyscrapers cropping up in urban agglomerates, it has become a sort of routine to reject any new project as, just another one. In midst of all these, the new airport at Shamshabad, Hyderabad has really carved a niche for itself with its humongous appearance, grandeur style and to its architectural excellence.

I had read and followed with interest, the various developments leading to the grand opening of Rajiv Gandhi International Airport at Shamshabad. The airport remained in news for a long time due to various issues relating to naming of airport, employee strikes etc. Hearing the personal experience of some my colleagues who visited the airport, my keenness to see it for myself, increased.

Finally, I had my chance and share of proud moment when my flight landed in the Shamshabad airport on April 2, 2008. I got into the airbus with other passengers and could view the silhouette of the airport behind the glittering lights. After the halt at arrival terminal, I headed towards the escalator leading to baggage section.

I was literally awestruck by the majestic appearance of the airport from inside, the big tall pillars with beautifully shaped dome, see thru glass roof allowing open view of the sky and beautiful sight of plane taking off and landing, spacious walk ways etc. Mobile shops, catering to need of passengers like fast foods, book stalls, snacks, garments, watches, jewelers etc were a new and welcome sight.

I walked with my laptop towards the conveyor carrying baggages and noted that a different mechanism is in place as against the conventional style. This allowed easier accessibility, reduced physical exertion and more comfortable experience.

I walked with my luggage towards the exit door and saw my driver was waiting to receive me. It’s not all over here, I went along with him down the escalator to parking area and learnt from him that 3000 plus cars can be parked here

I wanted to spend more time to see the engineering excellence peeping through every nook and corner of the airport smiling proudly, but time had a different plan. I checked out and got into the car. Behind me was one of the biggest airports in Asia. A strange thought crossed me and I hoped that we should all as citizens of India, follow the rules of cleanliness and maintain all our engineering marvel and architectural excellence.

By Jayaraman