Passengers are experiencing a growing amount of inconvenience when travelling through Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (LGBIA) in Guwahati due to inadequate infrastructure and a severe shortage of facilities. Passenger complaints present a dismal image of the difficulties they encounter, with crowded conditions, lengthy lines, and inadequate amenities depreciating the entire travel experience.
In 2023, Guwahati airport witnessed a staggering influx of passengers, handling approximately 5.6 million individuals, marking a notable increase from the previous year's figure of 4.6 million. The surge in passenger traffic, coupled with the handling of 46,600 aircraft in 2023, has put immense strain on the airport's infrastructure, leading to a multitude of issues for travellers. Among the 5.6 million passengers, 2.9 million were arrivals and 2.7 million were departures, indicating a balanced flow of traffic through the airport.
Despite the increase in passenger numbers, LGBIA is struggling to provide basic facilities to its visitors. Inside the facility, there is a major lack of seating capacity, forcing passengers to stand for extended periods while waiting to board their flights. The already limited facilities are further overwhelmed by the rapidly growing footfall, aggravating the inconvenience for travellers.
One of the major setbacks at LGBIA is the limited space for departures, leading to long queues during the boarding pass collection process. Additionally, the security checks, aimed at ensuring passenger safety, often consume a significant amount of time due to their meticulous nature, leaving travellers frustrated and dissatisfied with the experience. Passengers have voiced their concerns about the chaotic environment within the terminal, where constant announcements over loudspeakers add to the chaos, rather than facilitating a smooth travel experience.
A frequent traveller from Rupnagar expressed, "The airport is a hub of chaos. In the name of a seamless passenger experience, we are frisked at 2 or more points. Hands running around the body in the name of security check is somewhat irksome. The environment too is very noisy in comparison to airports in other states."
Despite opting for premium modes of transport, passengers are met with disappointment due to the unruly nature of the airport establishment. Upon arrival, passengers encounter further challenges, with only one exit gate available, leading to congestion and delays as travellers navigate their way out of the terminal. Outside, the overcrowded scenario and lack of organised vehicle parking intensify the frustration among passengers, who often find themselves stranded while waiting for pick-up services. The maze-like routes and barricades further complicate the process, adding to the overall inconvenience.
Speaking to GPlus, Nayan said, "There is no fee for the first 10 minutes. But, if we exceed the time they charge ₹30 for 10-30 minutes. The exit is often crowded and while returning we end up paying the money due to the congestion and lack of order."
Furthermore, the increase in retail outlets both inside and outside the terminal has failed to address the core issue of inadequate seating for customers to enjoy their purchased snacks or meals. While the airport services charge a convenience fee from passengers, this fee fails to serve its intended purpose, as travellers continue to face escalating challenges and discomfort throughout their journey.
Passengers, who have been at the receiving end of these inconveniences, have expressed their frustration and dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs at LGBIA. A passenger while raising the issue lamented, "The lack of seating and long queues make the entire experience exhausting and stressful. It's disheartening to see such a vital transportation hub struggling to meet the basic needs of its passengers."
Another traveller echoed similar sentiments, stating, "The chaotic environment inside the terminal and the unorganised setup outside only add to the frustration of passengers. It's high time authorities address these issues and improve the overall travel experience at LGBIA."
In response to the growing concerns raised by passengers, airport authorities need to prioritise infrastructure improvements and address the pressing issues plaguing LGBIA. Enhancing seating capacity, streamlining security procedures, and improving overall facilities are crucial steps that need to be taken to alleviate the inconvenience faced by travellers and ensure a smoother, more pleasant journey through the airport.
While speaking to GPlus, a senior official from LGBIA said, "This establishment was built to handle a volume of around 500 passengers, but we are managing a volume of more than double that. With the increase in passengers the space is definitely the bare minimum. But, we are providing every possible option. Soon the new terminal will be open for the public in the month of February next year. Then all these issues won't stand a chance. We are looking forward to the transition."
In conclusion, the current state of Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport presents a stark reality of inconvenience and discomfort for passengers, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive reforms and infrastructure upgrades to enhance the overall travel experience. Failure to address these issues in a timely manner could further magnify the challenges faced by passengers and tarnish the reputation of the airport as a vital transportation hub.
