As one of five ‘tabletop’ airports in India, Mangaluru International Airport faces challenges in the monsoon season.
Surrounded by lush green forest, it attracts a substantial amount of rain during the monsoon season, requiring meticulous planning and preparation.
As Karnataka’s second busiest airport, the airport plays a crucial role in the region’s connectivity and economy.
Let’s explore what makes this airport unique and how it tackles the challenges posed by monsoon seasons.
Mangaluru: A Tabletop Wonder
Perched 337 feet above mean sea level, Mangaluru International Airport is one of India’s five tabletop airports.
These airports, built on flat hilltops, offer a breathtaking view but come with their own set of challenges. The airport’s location, surrounded by lush green forests, creates a picturesque setting for travelers.
Monsoon Preparedness
Despite heavy rainfall during monsoon seasons, Mangaluru Airport remains operational year-round. This feat is achieved through a combination of factors, with the comprehensive drainage network taking center stage.
The airport’s maintenance team initiates 16 pre-monsoon checks each April, focusing on the intricate drain system. These checks involve:
- Inspecting all open drains from start to finish
- Rectifying any silting or sliding issues
- Removing weeds and vegetation to ensure unobstructed water flow
An airport spokesperson emphasized, “Our maintenance team works tirelessly to keep the drains clear, allowing rainwater to flow downstream efficiently.”
Drainage Network Layout
The current drainage system, implemented during the airport’s expansion in 2010, has proven its effectiveness over time.
“Rainwater never accumulates on the airport premises,” the spokesperson noted. “It flows seamlessly through designated outlets into the external drainage network.”
This efficient system includes:
- 20 outlets located around the airfield’s perimeter
- Six outlets draining directly into the nearby Gurupura River
- Additional outlets connected to external drains maintained by local authorities
The airport regularly shares its drainage network plan with local and district authorities, ensuring proper coordination and maintenance of the entire system.
General Information: Mangaluru Airport
Mangaluru International Airport, formerly known as Bajpe Airport, serves the coastal city of Mangaluru in Karnataka, India. Some key facts about the airport include:
- Opened in 1951
- Handles both domestic and international flights
- Features a single runway (2,900 meters long)
- Modern terminal building opened in 2010
- Serves as a gateway to the coastal Karnataka region
The airport’s strategic location makes it an important hub for travelers visiting popular tourist destinations in the area, such as Gokarna, Murudeshwar, and Udupi.
Conclusion
Mangaluru International Airport’s ability to operate efficiently during monsoon seasons is a testament to careful planning and regular maintenance.
By prioritizing drainage infrastructure and conducting thorough pre-monsoon checks, the airport ensures smooth operations throughout the year.
As Karnataka’s second busiest airport, it continues to play a vital role in the region’s development and connectivity.
With its unique tabletop design and lush surroundings, Mangaluru International Airport offers travelers not just a transit point, but also a memorable experience.
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