Karnataka Chief Secretary reviews new traffic system at KIA Terminal 1

KIA T1 revamp adds lane segregation, valet parking, stricter cab permits, and no‑honking rules; BIAL aims to cut congestion and improve passenger safety

Karnataka Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh recently inspected the revamped traffic and parking arrangements at Kempegowda International Airport’s Terminal 1, following weeks of criticism from cab operators and passengers. The system, introduced in December 2025, has drawn opposition over lane segregation, new overstay charges, and restricted access for commercial vehicles.

Traffic Management Challenges
Terminal 1 currently operates with four pick‑up curbs and 12 lanes. Each lane can accommodate around 30 vehicles within 90 seconds, but the simultaneous arrival of more than 100 vehicles has been causing delays of up to 10 minutes. To address this, Bengaluru International Airport Limited (BIAL) is rolling out measures aimed at smoother traffic flow and reduced congestion.

Valet Parking and Infrastructure Upgrades
One of the key initiatives is valet parking for private cars at the P4 lot. Vehicles parked there will be brought to the arrival lane in approximately four minutes. The P4 facility, which presently accommodates about 1,000 cars, is slated to be redeveloped into a multi‑level parking structure to meet growing demand.

Rules and Enforcement
In line with Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) guidelines, parking is prohibited within 100 metres of the arrival gate. The Police Department has been asked to declare the zone a “No Honking Area” and enforce strict penalties against violators. Private (white‑board) vehicles will continue to enjoy free access, while commercial (yellow‑board) cabs must use designated lanes. Pick‑up points for app‑based aggregators such as Namma Yatri and Rapido have been shifted from P1/P2 to P4.

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Cab Regulation and Permits
Only vehicles meeting safety and compliance standards—including police verification, RTO fitness certification, AIS‑140 GPS tracking, panic buttons, Suraksha Mitra integration, uniformed drivers, and clean interiors—will be registered through Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC). Nearly 900 permits have already been issued, with provision for more if required. Shuttle buses will operate every five minutes between terminals and parking zones, with six specially equipped vehicles available for seniors and wheelchair users.

Passenger Assistance
To ease the transition, BIAL has set up a transport assistance desk, deployed 20 staff to help with luggage, and installed new directional signage. The airport operator maintains that the revised system is designed to eliminate long‑standing congestion at the arrival kerb, ensuring safer, more orderly, and reliable passenger movement across both terminals.

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