Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) has become India’s first water-positive airport among facilities handling over 40 million passengers annually—a major milestone in sustainable aviation infrastructure. The certification was awarded at the Water Innovation Summit 2025 under the NITI Aayog–CII water neutrality framework, marking IGI’s commitment to replenishing more water than it consumes.
To achieve this status, the airport expanded its rainwater harvesting network to 625 structures, built two underground reservoirs capable of storing 9 million litres, and operates a 16.6 MLD zero-liquid-discharge sewage treatment plant. This system ensures that every drop of wastewater is fully treated and reused.
Recycled water supports key operations such as HVAC systems, landscape irrigation, and toilet flushing, significantly reducing dependence on external sources. Smart technologies—including automated sprinklers, drip irrigation, and digital monitoring—further optimise usage and minimise wastage. A dedicated treatment unit ensures clean drinking water for passengers.
This achievement strengthens IGI’s climate resilience and aligns with its long-term mission of becoming a net-zero airport. With its advanced water infrastructure and circular usage systems, IGI now stands as a national benchmark for sustainable airport planning and environmental leadership.
