| 01 | 02 | 03 Insignia of a Dream Printed & Published by A.C.K.Nair, ED & Airport Director, CIAL On behalf of Cochin International Airport Ltd., airport P.O, -683 111 , ,T : 0484 2610115 | www.cial.aero INSIGNIA OF A

Editor : P.S. Jayan

Text : Sunil Naliyath Design : Jayan Vennikkal

Photos : Seny Arukkat, CIAL archives, Columbia Lay out : Lights & FX Entertainment, Kochi DREAM Printed at : Anaswara, Kochi.

Cover : Idiom Designs, Bangalore.

Year of Publishing : 2015

© Cochin International Airport Limited No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechaninal including photocopy, recording or any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher.

| 04 | 05 Foreword

ochin International Airport is the illustrative manner, the first name that comes As the chairman of CIAL, I am glad to note first airport in the country built with to my mind is that of Mr.K.Karunakaran, that the airport has been consistently paying Cpublic-private participation. First is the former Chief Minister of Kerala. It dividend to its stakeholders. As of now, always special. I am extremely privileged to was he, who confidently and convincingly CIAL has paid a dividend to the tune of 132 have assumed the chairmanship of Cochin endorsed the airport project from the day % of the equity capital to the shareholders. International Airport Limited (CIAL) for it was presented to him by then District I would also like to mention here that the two terms. It is indeed an honour and a Collector of Ernakulam, Mr. V. J. Kurian managing director of CIAL, Mr. V. J. Kurian, responsibility that I cherish much. IAS. The project would not have taken off, IAS, has been instrumental in taking an Right from CIAL’s formative days, I have if not for the support and guidance of the extra effort to ensure that things are worked stood by this project. It was primarily ‘Leader’. out in an ethical and upright manner. His due to the realization that in a state like contributions right from conceptualisation CIAL turned out to be a milestone of the PPP model, mobilisation of funds, Kerala, which has a sizeable population achievement for Kerala, and a role model project planning and implementation, etc., of expatriates, an airport of international for the entire country. It triggered a new have helped the Government to make one of standards had much significance. It would wave of development through public-private its breakthrough missions successful. Since be immensely helpful for the growth participation. Many projects have been the beginning of the project, it has been his and prosperity of the State, and also aid realized by adopting this model and many efforts and enthusiasm that have fuelled in nurturing inter-cultural exchange by more are in various stages of completion. CIAL. boosting tourism. CIAL has also promoted the idea of Today, CIAL is on a fast track of expansion At one point in time, when the entire project inclusive growth. It has always taken care and diversification. The ambitious Rs 1,000 was about to come to a standstill owing to of those who have sacrificed for the airport, crore new international terminal is under financial crisis, took and I do feel content when I find that all the way. Having ventured into new avenues a bold decision to part- fund the project. evictees who had handed over their houses like hydel and solar energy, CIAL has This was a decision that gave a second life for the project are now leading comfortable formulated a new brand image which has to the project. Thereafter, understandably, lives. The company has streamlined the been acclaimed globally. As the chairman of there was no looking back for CIAL. rehabilitation of those ordinary men and CIAL, I am certainly very pleased to present Coincidentally, I was part of that team women in an exemplary manner, unlike before you this document that vividly in Government which took that historic most other instances around us. In every depicts the making of Cochin International decision. sense, Cochin International Airport is a airport. As the chairman of CIAL, when the evolution people’s project and an excellent model that Oommen Chandy of the project is being documented in an can be emulated. Chief Minister, Kerala & Chairman, CIAL.

| 06 | 07 Editor’s Note

Chronicling history is always a challenging task. In doing so, one has to constantly confront several perceptions. There may be stories that have not been embraced in its true warmth. Like success, failures too play their own role in the process of making history. Taking these facts into account, we have attempted to narrate a real story - The story of a great team who translated a dream into reality. It’s also the story of a visionary leader Mr. V.J. Kurian who led from the front and that of a rare political zest demonstrated by administrators like late Mr. K. Karunakaran. Again, it is also the story of a land and of its people who had unswerving faith in the project which was once regarded as a non- starter. The Cochin International Airport has crossed the milestone of one and half decades of existence in the history of Indian aviation. Certainly, this is not a tell-tale account of all those 15 years; instead it’s an attempt to unfold the illustrious story of a team which managed to mount unimaginable challenges during the project period. As such, the narrative part would come to an end in 1999, the year when the airport was commissioned. We used umpteen numbers of raw materials ranging from official records, news paper clippings to personal interviews for sapping the essence of the past and get it told in the limited folios. There may be omissions. There are possibilities of furthermore detailing. But give us the dispensation of human errors. But with my blue pencil, I have tried to adhere to some journalistic decorum. The style adopted is that of narration rather than cataloguing and utmost care has been taken to ensure the sacredness of facts and figures. The efforts put by Mr. Sunil Naliyath, a columnist and a well-known translator, with his contribution as a content writer, Mr. Jayan Vennikkal, with his contribution as an artist and graphic designer and Mr. Dominic Fernandez, Manager, CIAL, with his support in enriching the content were decisive. And now, this is the time to have a retrospection of an era and persistent efforts undertaken by a team of people who realized the dream of not just an airport, but people’s airport. P.S. Jayan

| 08 | 09 Welcome to Cochin International Airport

testament to the commitment and conviction of a traditional yet urbane convergence of the past and the future, Cochin AInternational Airport is today’s illustration of efficient connectivity and endless opportunities. CIAL is also the story of the rise and flight of one man’s dream and confidence, which found fuel and faith from a strong team that believed, supported and powered this to the skies.

| 10 | 11 GENESIS

t was a dream - relentlessly chased, now become inspirational for all those But many were of the belief that a big family today. More than 5,000 diligently executed and passionately who are looking for an inclusive and building an airport with people’s people are now under its wings. So far, Imanaged. Till then, it was an sustainable development model. participation was like building a castle CIAL has repaid 132 per cent of the endeavour that was quite unheard of in in the air. There was opposition from investment of each shareholder in the For all its glory, Cochin the Indian corporate world. To state its almost every corner and scepticism company. International Airport Ltd is indebted budget allocation as shoe-string would was suspended in the air. Acquisition to its dedicated team who built the Today, Cochin International only end up as an exclamation. But of 1253 acres of land from 3824 owners airport brick by brick. They proved Airport is not just an airport. It is a still, the venture unveiled a leadership was the biggest challenge. Three the unhappy myths wrong, diffused symbol of hope. It is a sense of pride that was never seen before. It portrayed temples and two churches were to be constant conflicts and surpassed for the common man in this part of a commitment that was never demolished. There was public outcry the stumbling blocks with renewed the country. It’s also a chronicle of experienced. Eventually the dream for shelving the project. The team held vigour. However, all through the building an airport from nothing. blossomed into a stunning reality. 41 rounds of discussions. They could spiky journey, they were driven by the There were several hundreds of An airport came into existence from convince the people that they would be fact that they were being subjected to individuals who toiled and sweated it scratch. Call it Cochin International the major beneficiaries of the project. a process that would act as a catalyst out to make this dream take wings. Airport - an insignia of a dream! A unique rehabilitation package was for change. Each one of them believed It’s their collective efforts that gave designed, which later became a case The saga of building the first in himself and reposed his faith in the CIAL a solid foundation and further, a study for several internationally airport in the country with the team leader Mr. V.J. Kurian. superb take off and later, it’s stunning, acclaimed institutions, including the participation of common public is runaway success! The entire team under his World Bank. genuinely inspiring. The story of the stewardship always dreamed. They Let’s begin with the leaders who path it traversed, hurdles it overcame CIAL always stood by the common worked in tandem, were stimulated converged the concept, the passion, and the hopes it fulfilled has now people who lost their land. It made by an efficient leadership, and always the effort and the toils to a gleaming become a model for others to emulate. every effort to enhance their standards triumphed over the hurdles one by triumph; the Cochin International The legacy of Cochin International one. They sweated it out, toiled and of living. All the 822 persons who lost Airport. Airport Limited (CIAL), the company worked hard under the scorching sun their houses have been provided with 1 that operates the airport at Kochi, has and over the barren field. an employment at the airport. CIAL is 1. Initial site condition

| 12 | 13 A PROPHETIC VISION headlines, and challenged the intentions of but the will to succeed helped find a way at arpeted in lush green, laced of the proposal to build an international Mr.Kurian and his team. each step. In spite of greater impediments in land acquisition, construction of the runway by invitingly blue waters, and airport in Kochi, Mr. Karunakaran However, in spite of all these obstacles, began with less than 20 per cent of land actually accessorised by the touch of enthusiastically took on the enormous it was never ‘down and out’ for Kurian, C acquired. A huge move then, but today it is modernity, God’s Own Country was all task of convincing people that this was who had the unnerving support from Mr. clearly one of the most crucial decisions that things nice and welcoming. Then came a the only way forward. Working towards K. Karunakaran. The political pressure and set the base for the airport dream. The Cochin leader with a dream and an idea; a vision change in a traditional community turmoil brought to fore the power and prowess International Airport was slowly finding shape of a better Kerala, an aspiration for what is no easy task, and this leader ably of ‘the leader’ Mr. Karunakaran, who handled across the marshy lands of Nedumbassery, and the State could be in the future. And, demonstrated what it means to lead from them effortlessly. Mr. V. J. Kurian, meanwhile, there was no stopping it. as Paulo Coelho saying goes, “when the front. A visionary leader and a man dealt with stalemates in the airport project you want something, all the universe ahead of his times, the proposal for an with the dexterity of a true diplomat. Here As a decision maker and a daring admini- conspires in helping you achieve it”. Mr. international airport seemed just the sort was a partnership that was as solid as the very strator, Mr. K. Karunakaran’s contribution K. Karunakaran thus went on to realize of challenge he needed to spur him on. foundation of the airport. to the airport project came in through three these dreams with his practical wisdom ways. Foreseeing the viability of the project, he Mr. V. J. Kurian was initially While the initial target for the project was and conviction, fighting insurmountable gave a ‘go ahead’ command when Mr.Kurian appointed as the special officer of Rs 200 crores, the total collections accumulated odds, making projects like the Goshree submitted the proposal of building an airport the airport project, and later assumed to just Rs 4.47 crores. This led to a feeling Bridge and the International stadium in under PPP model. It was a big ‘yes ‘ from the charge as managing director of Kochi of despondency, and it felt like the much Kochi a reality. decision maker and a mark of trust from the International Airport Society and nurtured dream would remain just that – a administrator. Again, when the new funding When Mr. V.J. Kurian, then District Cochin International Airport Ltd. dream. Once again, Kurian knocked at the plan was capitulated, owing to the tepid Collector of Ernakulam, proposed the doors of Mr. K. Karunakaran, with another Mr. K. Karunakaran paid attention response from potential investors, he stood idea of an international airport with innovative idea. A detailed discussion with to this project with personal preference by the project and agreed to the proposal public participation, it was written off by him ended with a green signal for the new in spite of stormy protests and vehement of floating a public limited company, CIAL. cynics and was met with much scepticism. funding concept, and this proved to be the antagonism. Hurdles were plenty, His unabashed support turned out to be a shot However, having an able leader to foster crucial turning point of the project. It infused and they often left Mr. Kurian feeling in the arm for Mr.Kurian, and he marched his novel concept certainly helped, and fresh life in to the entire project, and on 21st isolated and exhausted as protests forward. Lastly, when HUDCO demanded with Mr. K. Karunakaran’s approval, he August, 1994, the foundation stone was laid for spread like wildfire; even respectable for a guarantee (for the repayment of loan) flagged off these seemingly experimental Cochin international airport—a moment that rehabilitation packages were denounced. from the State Government, Mr.Karunakaran project in 1993. is recalled with emotion even today. Political opposition, legal suits and more convinced the cabinet to extend the guarantee, K. Karunakaran, Chief Minister of Kerala inaugurates the foundation stone laying ceremony of Cochin While there was general acceptance accusations found space in the national International Airport on 21 August 1994 Things were not smooth sailing though, despite the objections from bureaucratic circles.

| 14 | 15 THE GUIDING FUELLING A FORCE DREAM very successful project is guided by a to wrap up the project, citing impracticability, visionary and a remarkable leader. Mr. a meeting with Mr. Kurian inculcated in hen the excitement was building and on 31st March, 1995. The team breathed easy EE. K. Nayanar, Kerala’s longest serving him a strong sense of faith. From then on, work progressing, Cochin city was again, and work continued. In April 1996, Chief Minister played this role to perfection; Mr. Nayanar displayed an almost stubborn Wpreparing to host passengers from the first contribution of Rs. one crore came he was a blend of strength and sensitivity, optimism, and soon announced the State around the world. The good time came to a in from the Government of Kerala for equity a man of decisions and discipline. With his Government’s support for the CIAL project. pause, post 1995; a period of political turmoil participation. strong sense of passion in implementing things It was a huge victory for team CIAL and the unleashed in Kerala and the dream of an and the knack of dealing with complexities, Earlier in 1994, Mr. A. K. Antony played a construction picked up momentum. international airport seemed hard to take off. Mr. Nayanar bolstered the project from its Mr. K. Karunakaran stepped down as Chief crucial role in getting approval for the airport early years. Handholding the project firmly, Mr. Minister, and uncertainty reigned in the CIAL from the Ministry of Defence, when he was Nayanar’s constructive support helped ‘Team When in 1996, Mr. E. K. Nayanar was camp regarding the project’s future. the Cabinet Minister for Civil Supplies in CIAL’ in two ways; one, it provided the political the Central Government. This was a major sworn in as the new chief minister of Kerala, backing and thereby ensured the continuity But encouragement came in from Mr. breakthrough, especially after Mr. Kurian and the airport project was reeling under acute of the project implementation, and secondly, A. K. Antony, the next Chief Minister. He his team had held several discussions regarding financial crisis. Unfazed by the continuous it radiated a message of consensus, thereby gave instructions to all profit-making public objections raised by the Indian Navy, without challenges that had engulfed the CIAL dream alleviating opposition from all quarters. A feat sector undertakings (PSUs) to invest in CIAL. success. from its inception, Mr. Nayanar contemplated only a man with immense credibility and mass Ultimately, with persuasion from CIAL, the situation positively. The overall mood, support could achieve! and through Mr. A. K. Antony’s efforts, Mr. A. K. Antony’s third term as Kerala’s though, remained negative. There were direct investment from the government Chief Minister (May 2001-August 2004) also widespread concerns about the technical Excitement peaked when finally, on 25th became a reality with the government witnessed CIAL declaring dividends for the and financial feasibility of the project, land May, 1999, the much awaited dream took approving 26% share in the equity capital first time in 2003-04. During this period, acquisition issues, and reports of more than wings as Mr. K. R. Narayanan, then President of CIAL. The HUDCO loan (facilitated by CIAL also devised a master plan on long term 400 legal cases filed against the project. He of India, dedicated Cochin International Mr.K.Karunakaran) came through, and the strategies that could be adopted to make the convened a meeting with senior officials in the Airport to the nation. Mr. Nayanar chaired the first instalment of Rs. 25 crore was sanctioned airport internationally competitive. Government. Though some of them advised inaugural function.

| 16 | 17 was the managing director himself, the office took shape Nayanar (May 1996 - December 1999). In December 1999, with contributions from few commercial organizations. (the same year the airport was commissioned), Mr. Kurian A computer, fax machine and two pieces of furniture was relieved from his duties at CIAL and given a new completed the KIAS office. assignment. However, in 2003, he was called back when Never an easy journey to make, the airport project was the company was incurring a huge loss. Not one to see his viewed with doubt and cynicism right from the word go. dream crash landing, Kurian’s insight and leadership revived Political outfits played out their protest agendas, portraying the company and brought it back on track; it declared a Kurian in bad light out on the streets. Powered by his faith dividend for the first time. Kurian’s almost parental touch THE MAN WHO had worked its magic, yet again! in the project, he stayed strong and focused on executing the project, step by step. A mammoth project requires near- This period (2003-2006) was a time of new projects DARED TO DREAM mammoth funding too, and Kurian had an innovative plan and progress, more activity and achievements at CIAL. in place for collecting funds. While it was innovative, it did A new international arrival block, extension of parallel not turn out just as effective. More brickbats were thrown taxiway and airline buildings came into being during believe I can fly...’ sang American singer the cost and time frames that Mr. Kurian had but he took them as inspiration. When the initial funding this time. When Mr. Kurian returned to CIAL in 2011, R Kelly decades ago. Here’s a story of a achieved. Well done and well deserved! plan failed, Mr. Kurian proposed the constitution of a for his third term as managing director, CIAL started man who believed he could make others public limited company, the Cochin International Airport witnessing its biggest diversification and modernisation ‘I To start a race is easy, the challenge is in 1 fly... in comfort and luxury. This is the story of finishing it successfully. Meet Mr. V.J. Kurian, Limited, overcoming enormous blocks and limitations. since inception. Of these, the 1,000 crore state-of-the-art a man who dared to dream, dared to chase his who set out to race against time, money and Through CIAL, he redesigned the funding scheme and new international terminal is the flagship project. With a dream, and dared to realise his dream. Armed criticism, only to emerge successful and flying. resumed the project with the joint financial participation handful of new projects such as implementing solar and with a vision to take Kerala to the skies, Mr. V. A 1983 batch IAS Officer, Mr. V. J. Kurian’s of airport users, airport service providers, common public hydro electric power plants, supporting drinking water J. Kurian set out to work towards what many visionary zest, determination and ability to and the Government. With a small dedicated team who schemes in neighbouring panchayaths and creating better called an ‘impossible dream’. A few years later, transform ideas into reality under intimidating stood by him constantly, Mr. Kurian’s efforts enabled him brand visibility, CIAL is looking beyond its premises and Cochin International Airport turned to a reality conditions are what fuelled the novel concept to chase this dream, brushing off all things negative that working to build a better community around. All the 822 with the pragmatic brilliance and meticulous of an airport with people’s participation and came flying at him almost continuously. In fact it was their persons who lost their houses for the airport project are planning of Mr. V. J. Kurian. Leading from finally led to its operational success. It was in honest, dedicated involvement that propelled his efforts working in airport premises today. and fuelled him to chase his dream. His sheer grit and the front, winning people over with his insight 1992 that Mr. Kurian, then District Collector CIAL has been contributing to the state’s exchequer conviction helped him navigate through tough diplomatic and diplomacy, Mr. V. J. Kurian was a picture of of Ernakulam, conceptualized the project. significantly and the impact it has on the State’s tourism waters. He was quite articulate whenever he had a point to calm confidence and passionate perseverance, Since he was a junior IAS officer with a industry is remarkable. This is also one of the few airports prove and kept a low profile when someone attacked him as he fought challenges, overcame hurdles nominal service of nine years, there was severe in the country that handle more international passengers on flimsy grounds. Rather than focusing on encounters and won over fears and uncertainties. With opposition and scepticism from almost every than domestic ones. Not a small feat for this little city in with those who tried to undermine the project, Mr. Kurian each hurdle, he got a step closer to the dream, corner. However, with the support of Chief God’s Own Country! and finally his vision of an airport became a Minister K. Karunakaran, Mr. Kurian set the always concentrated on taking the project to another level. Today, as CIAL peaks greater heights of glory and reality with the wholehearted support of the project rolling and devised a scheme that led to It was his way of silencing his critics. growth, Mr. V. J. Kurian can stand tall with pride and joy. masses at an unbelievably low cost of Rs. 300 the formation of a society under the Charitable Strive and success shall meet you at the end of the As firm footed as always, his optimistic approach to every crores. It all happened within a span of six Act to mobilize funds. Mr. V. J. Kurian was road, and so it did! On 25th May, 1999, the nation’s first new project is commendable. No wonder then, that a years and eventually Cochin International appointed as the founder Managing Director of commercial airport under the Public-Private Partnership person who was portrayed as a despotic bureaucrat some Airport became a role model for infrastructure Kochi International Airport Society (KIAS) in mode, the Cochin International Airport, was inaugurated. two decades ago is now being looked at as an idol and is development in our country. The Indian July 1993. With an initial capital of Rs 20,000 The moment stood testimony to the untiring efforts of a fondly being referred to as ‘Airport Kurian’! A name he Institute of Management, , in its donated by an NRI, Mr. Jose Maliakal and a man, who dared to take a flight of faith to attain a larger surely cherishes and holds dear! exhaustive case study, observed that the role small office room provided by 2 goal. Despite changes in leadership and Governments, played by Mr. V. J. Kurian was something Development Authority, Mr. V. J. Kurian’s 1. V.J. Kurian explains the progress of the project to E.K. Nayanar, Mr. Kurian enjoyed the confidence of all the three Chief (Mr. Kurian is also serving as the Additional Chief extraordinary, with researchers expressing dream had rather humble beginnings. With The Chief Minister -1997 Ministers - Mr. K. Karunakaran (July 1993 - March 1995), Secretary to Government of Kerala and is in charge of water 2. K. Karunakaran, is being briefed up about the project by Mr.V.J.Kurian, during doubt whether anyone else could have matched an initial employee strength of one, which a site visit-1996 Mr. A. K. Antony (March 1995 - May 1996) and Mr. E. K. resources, Inland Navigation and Aviation)

| 18 | 19 VOICE OF SUPPORT The Biz-wizards

he bigger the dream, the higher the front. hat makes a businessman fear! It needs courage to show faith in In October 1993, Mr. Jacob along with different from others is his Tthe dream, and stay committed to it. Mr. Kurian, started a fund raising campaign ability to think ahead, identify CIAL is proud to have had the support and W among the non-resident Keralites. Mr. T. M. opportunities, and support promising confidence of Mr. T. M. Jacob, one of Kerala’s Jacob held meetings with influential NRKs proposals. CIAL owes a big thanks to many finest Legislative members, from the very onset to raise contributions towards this ambitious such renowned business leaders who saw of the project. As an MLA for over two decades project. Mr. M.A. Yusuffali, Mr. K.V. Prakash, the potential in this project and extended and a Minister in the UDF government, Mr. Dr. M.K. Ebrahim Fujjaira, Mr.V.O.Sebastian, wholehearted support all throughout. T. M. Jacob played a significant role in fund Mr.Pankaj and Mr. K.V.Joseph together formed While innumerable leaders and politicians raising and land acquisition. Cochin International Development Forum in supported the idea of an international Mr. T. M. Jacob was convinced about the the Middle East and collected Rs. 4.47 crore. airport in Cochin, there were a few who economic progress and advancement the airport The anticipated amount of Rs. 200 crores was remained steadfast to their commitment would bring to the state of Kerala. He aspired still a long way, but the move created a wave to the project from start to finish. Team to uplift Kerala to the global map of aviation, of optimism among NRKs. An international CIAL is grateful to these industrialists and and took upon himself the responsibility to airport was viewed as a thing of pride by businessmen for their firm backing, and convince then Chief Minister K. Karunakaran. many, and soon more supporters jumped in. moreover for showing faith in the project. Mr. Jacob shared a more-than-political bond This eventually scaled up to an investor base of Every journey becomes easier when you with Mr. Karunakaran, and was able to earn 18,000 stakeholders from around 30 countries. have the right company to walk along. ‘the leader’s’ nod of support for the project. When the Kochi International Airport Society Mr. Yusuffali, managing director Earlier, mastermind of the project, Mr. V.J. (KIAS) was registered in 1993, Jacob became of EMKE Group, who undisputedly Kurian, had elaborated to Mr.Jacob about the one of the signatories to the memorandum of popularised Kerala in the Middle East project and its immense possibilities and this association and the bye-law. business scenario, is somebody who can helped in persuading the Chief Minister to back With the incorporation of Cochin certainly be called the global face of Cochin the project. Now, a formidable support was in International Airport Limited in March 1994, International Airport. Mr. Yusuffali place, with Chief Minister Mr. Karunakaran Mr. Jacob became one of the first directors, a has been a part of the project from the and one of his best ministers leading from the post he deserved and held until 1996. M.A. Yusaffali C.V. Jacob early 1990s when the donor scheme was

| 20 | 21 E.M. Babu N.V. George Mohammed Ali announced to collect contribution from founder managing director, Synthite octogenarian has been ardently contributing International Airport. Being a global NRIs in the Middle East. He enthusiastically Group. During one of his mornings with to all initiatives undertaken by the CIAL businessman himself, Mr. Mohammed came forward to support the project. As the newspaper, Mr. Jacob chanced upon a management. Mr. Jacob takes his job very Ali always kept abreast of the latest chairman of the UAE chapter of Cochin report about an young District Collector’s seriously and ensures his presence at every developments in international business and International Airport Development Forum, efforts to build an airport with the support decision-making meeting of the airport. He the board of directors have many a time he headed and coordinated fund raising of the masses. The visionary in him is credited for having attended 100 of the Site of a brickklin factory in Nedumbassery just before the acquisition in 1993 banked on his rich and varied experience irports aren’t just places for travel convenience. More often than not, those who toiled to translate activities in the Middle East. His clout as an instantly wrote to Mr. V. J. Kurian, the 101 director board meetings held so far. while dealing with several international entrepreneur par excellence and his acumen Collector, expressing his willingness to be It’s a place of reunions, good-byes, hugs, tears this dream into a reality, had to face the music and Mr. E.M. Babu, managing director contracts. His contribution to the board as and a lot of emotions. It is a place that connects stand in the line of fire, rather unarmed. Mr. Kurian as a successful businessman reflected associated with the said project. Mr. Kurian the Chairman of Audit Committee during A of Majeed Bukatara Trading Esst, Dubai, people and brings cultures together. When the idea of shepherded the team and propelled this hard-to- positively on the project. The NRIs held his responded immediately, and that was the the period 2006 to 2011 deserves special words in high regard and were convinced of beginning of a formidable relationship that UAE, has been a well wisher and supporter an international airport for Kochi was envisaged, it believe dream into a reality. His well-studied facts mention. the benefits of this project. Mr. Yusuffali’s ultimately culminated in the making of the of CIAL right from its inception. Mr. was seen more than just an economic initiative. With a and futuristic views made the people sit up and take goodwill aided the campaign; hundreds airport. Babu contributed Rs. 10 lakhs in the initial Mr. N.V. George associated with CIAL significant NRK population spread across the Middle notice of this dream to fly high. It was through him of NRIs contributed to various fund years, and also interacted extensively with during 1997-98 when the construction of East, the US, UK and other countries, an international that they discovered a new horizon and managed to Mr. Jacob became the first non- raising schemes. As a director of CIAL, the NRI population in enlightening them airport would facilitate easier and more frequent realise a dream hitherto unfulfilled. NRI to contribute towards the Cochin the airport was progressing at a break-neck Mr. Yusuffali has been instrumental in about the project. He has been a director on travel for loved ones. It would also be a great boost to International Airport in 1993, when he speed. That was a time when the finances The Today, the impossible has been achieved, and creating a smooth and effective functioning the board since June 1998. gave Rs. 25 lakhs to the project. With his of the company were also being stretched to the tourism sector, which sees a steady growth every CIAL has given new meaning to the usage ‘sky is the environment for the project. Today, immense experience as a major government The contributions of Mr. P. Mohammed the limits. One fine morning, Mr. George year. Of course, it is an ambitious endeavour that limit’. As flights roar off the runway, the small state of Mr. Yusuffali’s international exposure Beginning would catapult Kochi into the world map of aviation. contractor, Mr. Jacob voluntarily supervised Ali (founder, Galfar Group, Oman, and one walked into CIAL office at Marine Drive for Kerala gleams proudly looking up to the skies. Having and negotiating skills have been a great almost all engineering-related activities of of the founder directors of CIAL) and Mr. a friendly chat with the managing director, Indeed, there was a long-felt need for an international lived up to the reputation of being one of the most contributing factor, in encouraging CIAL the airport—from runway construction to N.V. George, MD, Geo Electricals Trading Mr. V. J. Kurian and it did’nt take long for airport located in Kochi, a commercial hub which successful models of public-private partnership in the to venture into new areas of development. of a great the completion of terminal buildings. He & Contracting Company Ltd, Sharjah and the shrewd businessman in Mr. George to housed many new and growing business enterprises. Indian subcontinent, this unpretentious endeavour One newspaper article flickered was one of the founder directors of CIAL , director of CIAL since 1999, have also been realize the potential of the project and pitch Right from the day the idea was mooted, both bricks has been ordained to be one of the most thriving sagas something in the mind of Mr. C. V. Jacob, a post he holds with prudence to date. This significant in shaping the future of Cochin in with substantial investment. journey and bouquets came in from the most unlikely corners. of success in the corporate history of India. | 22 | 23 The Master Plan

The master plan of the airport ochi, the city known by the sobriquet; the queen on the verge of falling off the aviation map. Indian Navy, of Arabian Sea, is the largest urban agglomeration the owner of the airport was content with the existing Kin Kerala. It is also the commercial capital of the levels and standard of performance, which were more than state. As one of the most traversed tourist destinations and sufficient for their military operations. a much sought after centre for trade and export activities, It was under those circumstances that Mr. K. V. the city has maintained cultural and trade relations with Thomas, then Member of Parliament, wrote to the Ministry rest of the world right from medieval period. Despite its of Aviation wherein he highlighted the need to extend picturesque landscape and vibrant cultural legacy, a fine the runway. Responding to this urgent request as well as Why a new mélange of ancient civilization and modern outlook will several other representations from the Cochin industry best describe the chronicle of Kochi. In 1970s the city was and business community, Mr. Madhav Rao Scindia who rapidly poising to achieve the status of a national metro was then Union Minister for Civil Aviation convened a airport ? city. The public especially the business community was meeting during 1991. The main objective of this meeting demanding better transport facilities including direct was to assess the feasibility of expanding the runway of the connectivity to major cities. With the exodus of Malayalis naval airport, which was estimated by National Airport to Middle East countries in the 1980s, there arose a demand Authority ( NAA- Now Airport Authority of India) at for an improvement in existing facilities as bigger airlines Rs 72 crores. Mr.V. J. Kurian, then District Collector of were willing to include Kochi in their route map. Ernakulam, represented the Government of Kerala in the The naval airport at , the only airstrip meeting. During the meeting, NAA categorically refused in Kochi, was plagued with several confines like a short the proposal of investing in an airport owned by Indian runway, prohibition on night flying, and no international Navy. The Navy also reiterated their stand that they would flights. Its existing runway was inadequate for operation not carry out a plan to enhance civilian operation facilities. of bigger aircrafts. Also the geographic location posed The reluctance of the National Airport Authority, major challenges for airport expansion and reclamation of owner and operator of all Civil Airports in the country, land was not possible to extend the runway. Moreover, to make further investments in an airport owned by with Indian Airlines deciding to upgrade their aircrafts to the Indian Navy gave way to the need for an alternative Prof. K.V. Thomas Airbus 320, the airport became more outdated and was location for construction of a new airport.

| 24 | 25 A satellite image of the location

he onus of finding a suitable location for the new promised to extend necessary technical assistance. airport fell on Mr. V. J. Kurian, who was the District Collector of Ernakulam. After short Nedumbassery, thus, one of ’s most T remote and underdeveloped villages, suddenly became listing a few locations like , Edakkattuvayal, Thengode, Maradu and Kalamasserry, all of which a geopolitical hotspot for the media. As the land was were in the periphery of Kochi, he finally zeroed-in on dotted with paddy fields, coconut trees, homesteads and Nedumbassery which was a placid village near . about 33 brick-kiln factories, it was a huge task on hand. Nedumbassery was finalised for its easy access to rail and Controversies erupted almost instantly, and gathered road connectivity, both of which stood in close proximity more momentum as political interests came to play. to the proposed site. The NAA approved the new location Mr. Kurian and his team, however, marched steadfastly in August 1992, but stayed away from investing in the new forward. Rather than using copybook management Map it right ! airport owing to financial constraints. They, however, tactics, they relied on their pragmatic brilliance. | 26 | 27 Story of flights & faith

f you thought flying a plane was tough, be warned that getting a space ready to fly the Iplane is tougher and riskier. With no guiding lights and danger alerts, team CIAL navigated its way forward, jumping political potholes, dodging legal battles and manoeuvring through financial crises. Constantly clearing hurdles, both visible and invisible, the ‘task force’ led by Mr. V. J. Kurian seemed to face no mountain high enough. Soon after the project was mooted, the primary obstacle of identifying a location was deftly dealt with. This, however, was only the beginning of a rough flight; the hunt for adequate funding seemed a bigger challenge. As the NAA had already expressed their unwillingness to invest in the project, the mobilization of funds appeared to be one of the biggest concerns for those who ventured out to realise this dream from scratch. At this stage, the Government of Kerala was also reluctant to make any financial commitment, which left Mr. Kurian and team spending much of their energy trying to raise the estimated Rs.200 crores. The negative campaigns, public and political protests only further hampered their efforts.

Photos of initial site condition

| 28 | 29 Fund your Logo of KIAS Jose Maliakal dream...

he story of CIAL is also, to a great extent, in the ‘Malayala Manorama’ newspaper on 19th pioneering project. A meeting was convened by the story of a civil servant who fought February 1993 at the behest of Mr. K. V. Thomas then Minister for Civil Aviation, Mr. Ghulam Tagainst all odds to set up a green field who was the local Member of Parliament. With Nabi Azad, during which a decision was taken international airport that was destined to become vehement opposition from cynics, the whole to give the go-ahead for airport construction HUMBLE a rare success saga in corporate India. As the project was generally thought of to be an unfeasible through public-private participation. Mr. V. J. Governments and NAA were grappling over idea by bureaucrats and public alike. Mr. Kurian, Kurian and Mr. R. Balakrishna Pillai, who was BEGINNINGS fund raising, Mr. Kurian put forward a novel idea. however, was determined, and, with his own then Minister, represented the Government of Iconoclastic, in the sense that nobody had dared style of persuasion, tried convincing political Kerala along with Mr. K. V. Thomas. On 30th to suggest until then, the idea was to develop leaders, decision makers and fund managers about March 1993, ministry of civil aviation gave the IAS had a modest launch. The Greater Mr Kurian designed and mooted two schemes returned to investors. The amount invested in an airport with the joint financial participation the feasibility of the scheme. This in itself was an thumps up signal and in principle approval for the Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) to raise funds. One was a donor scheme and the Kisan Vikas Patra would have been sufficient of airport users (mainly non-resident Indians), incredible journey. The project had a significant international airport proposal at Nedumbassery. Kprovided an office space at Marine Drive other an interest-free loan scheme. The objective enough to pay back the loan without interest airport service providers and the Government. advantage; however, it had no prefabricated Commercial complex on a nominal rent of Rs. of the donor scheme was to collect Rs. 25 crores As soon as the Central Govt. agreed to the at the end of five and half years. The maths and models to imitate. 100 per month. The office tables and chairs as donations from individuals, organisations and The essence of Mr. Kurian’s plan for raising proposal, the Government of Kerala issued an budgeting was all done perfectly: if just 4 lakh were donated by Ernakulam Chamber of beneficiaries of the airport. The donors would funds was relied on Keralites working abroad. It Here was a flight plan that needed to be order (G.O. (MS) No.42/93/PW&T dt.19.5.1993) people provided a loan of Rs 5,000, the society Commerce (now Kerala Chamber of Commerce also be entitled to certain facilities like a waiver of was estimated that about 28 lakh Indians were charted on its own, and although a predictably and gave approval for the airport project. would get Rs 200 crores in cash and would have working in the Middle East, and 20 lakh of these turbulent ride was indicated, what it did have and Industry). Cochin Chamber of Commerce the entry fee, special lounge access in the airport, spent Rs 100 crore for the purchase of Kissan Appointing Mr. Kurian as the Special Officer were from Kerala. A projected 3. 5 lakh Keralites was lots of optimism. Ignoring opposition from and Industry donated a computer and Vyapari separate check-in counters, and more; once the Vikas Patra. As per the Govt.of India scheme, of the project and forming a society to make a were in North America and 1.5 lakh in various various quarters, the District Collector was Vyavasay Ekopana Samithi (an organization of airport was functional. 75% of the funds invested in Kisan Vikas Patra consolidated move followed suit in rather quick owners of commercial establishments in the state) African and European countries. For them, determined to take up the project—a “crazy idea” It was expected that Rs 5,000 could be could be availed as loan, from the Government succession. donated a fax machine. To begin with , there was an international airport at Kochi was not just for many. He earned his first success when he collected as interest free loan from four lakh of India, by the State Government. This amount only one staff; the managing director. Gradually convenient but also a necessity in making their got the approval of then Chief Minister, Mr. K. To begin with, a Society was formed in July non-resident Malayalees, i.e, about 20 % of the of Rs. 75 crores was expected to be handed over four were inducted, on deputation, from Kerala homecoming trips more comfortable and regular. Karunakaran, who foresaw what the Collector 1993; Kochi International Airport Society (KIAS) expatriates—who would willingly contribute to a to the society, which would be repaid when the State Warehousing Corporation Ltd. This little Initial observations predicted that the NRK had dreamt and approved the unheard-of idea under the Charitable Societies Act, with Mr. K. cause that would bring them closer to their home income accrues from the project, and sale of space managed by a small team is where the larger population would contribute liberally, by which of developing an international airport with the Karunakaran as chairman and Mr. V. J. Kurian and native land. They would be eligible to some excess land due to capital appreciation resulting dream slowly took shape. a total of Rs. 200 crores could easily be raised. participation of common people, airport service as the managing director. It was just a modest special privileges too. Of the Rs 5,000, which was from the commissioning of the airport. Thus, Mr.V.J. Kurian prepared a preliminary providers and airport users who are mainly non- beginning. The KIAS began functioning with It was under the aegis of Kochi International proposed to be raised from an individual, Rs 2,500 it was envisaged that the society would be able report for raising finances through a charitable resident Keralites. Mr. Kurian gathered enough a nominal amount of Rs. 20,000/- as its initial Airport Society that the land acquisition for the was to be utilised for purchasing a Kisan Vikas to mobilise Rs 200 crores( Rs.100 crores from society and submitted this to the Government of courage from NAA’s assurance and confidently capital. This amount was contributed by Mr. airport begun. The initial cost of the airport Patra (a Govt. Of India Scheme) which would investors + Rs.75 crores from loan and Rs.25 Kerala. An abstract of the report was published took up the challenge of mobilising funds for the Jose Maliakal, an NRI from Germany. project was pegged at a whopping Rs. 200 crores. get doubled in five and half years and could be crores from donors) without much difficulties.

| 30 | 31 DONORS WHO CONTRIBUTED Rs. 10 lakhs or more

Fund raising initiatives

Yusuff Ali M.A. C.V.Jacob E.M.Babu Xavier George V.O. George Veliyath Emke group, Abu Dhabi, UAE Synthite group, Kolencherry Dubai, UAE Cochin Koratty nnovations and experiments have always been formed in various countries to support and with the airport project. When the novel finance the project. Mr. M.A. Yusuffali (managing Ifunding scheme was introduced and accepted director, EMKE Group) was nominated as the by the Government, Mr. Kurian deciphered a chairman of the committee in the Middle East. modus operandi for reaching out to the people. Mr. K.V. Prakash (originally from Kochi and On 15th August 1993, a half page advertisement settled in Abu Dhabi) was the chief co-ordinator. appeared in all prominent newspapers; the cost A section of the business community and NRKs of which was sponsored by banks (who would took up the fund-raising project. Their foresight be the beneficiaries of the project; again an helped KIAS gain an initial momentum and there were 16 people who contributed Rs 10 lakh or innovation !). That was perhaps the beginning Rajendraprasad Rajan Daniel Dr.P.A.Thilakarajan M.M.Mathai M.K.Kamaluddin 303 of another model in Kerala; the crowd funding. more. Apart from individuals, larger institutions Ajman, UAE Salmiyah, Kuwait Abu Dhabi, UAE Kuttapuzha, Tiruvalla Dubai, UAE donors who like Indian Oil, Bharath Petroleum, Malayala responded The newspaper advertisement was diligently prepared. It connoted with the celebration of 50 Manorama and Spices Board contributed to the years of Independence, as at that time, the airport donor scheme. This, however, was not sufficient 2828 was scheduled for opening on 15th August 1997 . even though the whole concept looked very persons who A separate brochure in same line was also made ingenious. The bitter reality was that only Rs 4.47 subscribed to the loan crores could be collected against an anticipated scheme ready to circulate among the potential share holders (see the copy of the brochure in pages 34 200 crores (303 donors responded and offered & 35). Rs. 2.15 crores for the airport development 4.47 while 2828 people subscribed to the interest-free crore. amount in Mr. Kurian visited non-resident Keralites in loan scheme; through which Rs 2.32 crores was Sankaran Asokan George Varghese Edwin Joe Dr.Kumar Bahulayan Shetty B.R. Alex Koshy Rs. collected the Middle East and Europe. Committees were collected). USA Haripad Zuerich, Switzerland New York, USA Abu Dhabi, UAE Ajman, UAE

| 32 | 33 A change in strategy

he fundraiser plan had looked impeccably accurate on paper, but in reality the donor and loan schemes Tfailed to garner the expected response. It was novel and innovative, but the very fact seemed to have instilled a lack of confidence in people, and hence received a lukewarm response. This was a huge setback for the project, which was already caught in uproars. Detractors ruled the scene and critics campaigned for abandoning the project. The team, however, went ahead brain storming and strategy mapping, without surrendering to the conspiracy of the situation. The tried and tested methods did not excite Mr. Kurian, and he spent hours studying possibilities that could be successful. This was a phase of absolute low and the threat of abandoning the project loomed large. But Kurian believed ‘if you can dream it, you can do it’, and this spirit kept him going. He had readied a new plan —financial remodelling by floating a company. He elaborated on the funding proposal and how it would work in salvaging the project from its present crisis. According to this, a public limited company had to be formed which would enable the project to pool funds through equity shares from public investors and also from the State Government and other public institutions. The concept of institutional lending was also mooted for the project. Once the initial concerns were addressed, people saw potential in the proposal and this turned out to be a lifesaver for the airport project. The brochure circulated among the public and NRIs seeking their contribution for the airport project-1993 | 34 | 35 CIAL First CIAL takes Board Members shape K. Karunakaran V.J. Kurian IAS chairman managing director

s the response to the funding Mr. Sivadasan, company secretary, propounded by KIAS played a major role in convincing Afell below expectations, Mr. K. Karunakaran to float a the governing body of KIAS public limited company. Thus, on 10th January, 1994, decided on 30th March 1994, Cochin to incorporate a public limited International Airport Ltd. (CIAL) Ernakulam, Mr. C.V. Jacob, Mr. R. Bhatnagar, then CMD of HUDCO, company with an authorized capital was registered. It was decided to Madhavan Nayar, Mr. P. Mohamed about the feasibility of the project of Rs 90 crores that consisted of 9 raise Rs 90 crores through public Ali and Dr. P.A. Thilakarajan and HUDCO surfaced on the scene crore equity shares of Rs 10 each. equity. The Kochi International were also founder board members by sanctioning a term loan of Rs. 98 The land acquired by the society Airport Society (represented by of CIAL. The amount collected crore in February 1995. would be leased out to the proposed Mr.V.J. Kurian), Cochin Chamber through both loan and donation This not only acted as a catalyst company for the construction and of Commerce and Industry, Indian schemes were converted to shares. maintenance of the airport. KIAS, Chamber of Commerce and but also turned out to be an eye The benefits declared by KIAS for opener for both individuals and being a charitable society, had Industry, Ernakulam Chamber of the providers of the loan and for the several limitations for raising funds. Commerce as well as entrepreneurs institutions. It was the determination donors were also made applicable. of Mr. K. Karunakaran to provide The proposed company would have like Mr. R. Madhavan Nayar, Mr. All service providers were requested to take on methods of institutional C. V. Jacob and Mr. P. Govinda a government guarantee for the T.M. Jacob T.H. Mustafa Prof. K.V. Thomas R. Ramachandran Nair IAS to take part in the financing of the repayment of loan that persuaded funding which would not only Rao were the promoters of the project against various schemes (see raise equity investment from the company. Mr. K. Karunakaran, HUDCO to sanction such an box in page 38). Government of Kerala, institutions, being the Chief Minister, became enormous amount. Meanwhile, all high net-worth individuals, and the founder chairman, and Mr. V. Though there were many efforts were made to ensure there public investors, but also have a J. Kurian, the founder managing individuals who wholeheartedly was adequate subscription to the base for debt leveraging through director. Then ministers, Mr. T. welcomed the idea of an international private placement of shares. institutional lenders. Prominent M. Jacob and Mr. T.H. Mustafa, airport centred at Kochi and had Mr. A. K. Antony, who was personalities like Mr. K. M. Mathew Prof. K.V. Thomas, Member of contributed without even an eye sworn in as the next Chief Minister of Malayala Manorama, Mr. Parliament from Ernakulam, Mr. of suspicion or doubt, the initial of Kerala, made a bold move, and Venugopal C.Govind, managing R. Ramachandran Nair, IAS, institutional response was lukewarm. invested one crore—the first equity partner of Varma & Varma, and Chief Secretary, District Collector, However, the project received a investment of the Government of shot in the arm, when Mr. Kurian First meeting of board of directors chaired by K.Karunakaran, Chief Minister. T.M.Jacob, Minister, K.V.Thomas, MP Kerala in CIAL. This was released in and V.J.Kurian are also seen-1994 C.V. Jacob R. Madhavan Nayar P. Mohammed Ali Dr. P.A. Thilakarajan was able to convince Mr. K. K. April 1996.

| 36 | 37 To meet both ends CIAL continued to adopt new methods and schemes to mobilize funds. Many of these methods later became models for others. Here are some examples: • Commissioning & Operation of the Fuel Hydrant System was awarded to M/s. Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd., who provided a deposit of Rs. 5.25 crores, which later was converted to equity shares. Mr. Venkiteswaran, the first • Licence for the Fuel Retail Outlet FOUNDATIONS Company Secretary of CIAL, for vehicles was granted to M/s. ably assisted Mr. Kurian in tying Indian Oil Corporation, who had up substantial investment from the provided an interest free loan of IN STONE Government of Kerala and also Rs.75 lakh. raising equity funds for the project • The exclusive ground handling uring early 1994, granted. R. Venkiteswaran from the public. contract for 10 years was granted complications and uncer- to Air India Ltd., who subscribed tainties loomed large over On the afternoon of 21st August During the construction D 1994, Nedumbassery was in a festive to shares worth Rs. 5 crores and stage, it was decided to commence the airport project. It was yet to CIAL Capital Structure - 1999 provided an interest-free deposit of receive approval from the Defence mood. Mr. K. Karunakaran, whose international operations when the Rs. 11 crores. support was the primary backbone airport was put to operation, and Ministry and the Indian Navy had The actual Airport Project cost at the time of commissioning the airport in May 1999 • Foreign Exchange Counters were already raised its objections to the to the project, laid the foundation was Rs.281 Crores, including 56 crores paid as interest during the project stage, accordingly a number of features stone for Cochin International and the financing of the project is shown below (Rs. in Crores). were added to the terminal being allotted to M/s.Thomas Cook who same. The land acquisition process had taken a sluggish pace due to Airport before a jubilant crowd. constructed to enable it to be of provided an interest-free deposit of numerous petitions filed in courts. Union Minister for Civil Aviation Equity Participation as on 31.03.1999 Interest free deposits world class airport infrastructure. Rs. 50 lakh. However, against all odds, Mr. and Tourism, Mr. Ghulam Nabi I M/s.Indian Oil Corporation (1995) 0.75 The construction cost, thus, went up • Banking rights and foreign II M/s.Thomas Cook (1999) 0.50 V. J. Kurian decided to lead from Azad, was the Chief Guest. Mr. P.P. substantially. To meet these added exchange counters were provided III M/s.Air India (1999) 11.00 the front. He wanted to send out TOTAL expenses, Federal Bank gave CIAL to M/s. State Bank of Thankachan, speaker of the Kerala IV Retail outlets (1999) 2.75 a message that this project would Assembly, Ministers Mr. T.M. I Government of Kerala 29.85 a term loan of Rs 24.69 crores and & M/s. Federal Bank Ltd., who TOTAL 15.00 materialize irrespective of any State Bank of Travancore in turn provided term loans to CIAL and Jacob and Mr. T.H. Mustafa were II Public Sector undertakings 2.60 hurdles. Thus, with no land in hand, Financial Institutions who Offered Term provided a term loan of Rs 25 crores. also invested in CIAL’s share capital. also on the dais. he set out to lay the foundation III Non-Resident Indians and Others 26.48 Loan to CIAL for Airport Construction Subsequently HUDCO raised the • An arrangement was made with stone for the international airport. Mr. P.Y. Varghese needs a IV Airport Service Providers 19.00 HUDCO 138 total loan to Rs. 138 crores. This, Federal Bank 24.69 M/s Alpha Airport Holdiings UK Some called it stupidity, some called special mention as he was the together with the equity capital TOTAL 77.93 SBT 25 Ltd. for procurement consultancy it bravery, but Kurian called it faith! person who generously offered his and loans as well as the interest- for Duty Free shop. They offered Later there was a huge sigh of relief, land even before acquisition to lay In return for the support extended by the Donors & Subscribers of the Interest Free Loan scheme of KIAS, CIAL issued to all donors, shares free security deposits from service an investment of Rs. Three crores of CIAL for the amount donated to the company and also issued shares of CIAL for the donation part of IFL for all subscribers of IFL when the much-awaited approval the foundation stone for the airport provider agencies, enabled CIAL Scheme without collecting any share application money. as equity participation and USD 1.5 from the Central Government was project. 11000 investors from 30 countries : Global Airport to meet project financing needs (see million as interest free deposit. box). 1.2. Foundation stone laying ceremony

| 38 | 39 ACQUISITION OF LAND a relentless mission

cquisition of land was a The Chengalthodu, which huge challenge for CIAL. is a creek connected to River AIt is also one of the most Periyar, had to be completely complex and tedious processes realigned. Numerous public the state has ever witnessed. The pathways spread over a number agitation of the evictees, lack of of villages like Herbert Road, funds, political oppositions and Kanjoor-Thuravunkara litigations; challenges before the Road, Kallumkoottam Road, 2 team were aplenty. The 4 (1) Nayathode-Kallayam Road and notification for land acquisition the like also gave way for the had already been released in airport. Three temples and two 1993. The process was launched churches were relocated. with the help of Rs. 10 crores To make matters worse, sanctioned by the Federal Bank, adequate funds were not available and three special Thasildars were to compensate evictees. Public appointed. An area of 1253 outcry for shelving the project acres of land was required for was at its peak, and these were the project; which belonged to testing times for Mr. Kurian and 3824 land owners, and there were his land acquisition team headed 822 households. A substantial by Ms. I. C. Anna, a retired number of people vehemently Deputy Collector who were ably opposed land acquisition with the assisted by Mr. Balakrishnan and 3 active support of local political Mr. Raman Nair. As the land leaders cutting across party lines. acquisition progressed, the site People were apprehensive that office of CIAL was shifted to they would be denied adequate Nedumbassery. Space for this compensation for their land. purpose was let out by Mr. P. Y. The land acquisition involved Varghese who was then a member removal and relocation of several of the Nedumbassery Panchayath. hundreds of homes, fields, brick- kiln factories, realignment of The acquisition team waterways and redirection of somehow needed to convince numerous roads, modifying of land owners of the importance places of worship and even more. of the project and the benefits

1. View of the site before aquisition 2. I.C. Anna 3. Newly diverted Avanamcode Road 4. I.C. Anna, the official who led the acquisition team during a meeting convened for title deed 1 4 distribution-1997

| 40 | 41 Details of the land acquired Area for runway : 594.07 Acre Area for terminal complex : 536.75 Acre Area for Navigation aid : 53.35 Acre Other area : 68.83 Acre Total : 1253.00 Acre

K. Babu S. Sarma P.J. Joy Mohammad Ali M.L. Johny Kannappan P.Y. Varghese P. K. Ittoop Unni Menon Koshy, wherein the land acquisition process was reinstated. This verdict was also upheld by the Division Bench and Supreme Court. The land acquisition team headed by Ms. I.C. Anna was it would bring them. Almost 41 rounds of The provisos tabled before the landowners market value of Rs. 3000/ cent. Later this (Rs. continuously under immense pressure initially, negotiations were held with land owners with reflected the benevolence of the company. It 8000,) was escalated upto Rs. 12,000. but with their perseverance and determined the active participation of political leaders. had a touch of compassion and a gesture of efforts, they could complete the process by 1999. Accordingly, 719 house owners out of 822 Mr.Mohammad Ali (MLA, ), Mr. goodwill. According to this , owners who had The entire land acquired by KIAS was transferred came forward for negotiated settlements (516 P.J.Joy (MLA, Angamaly), Mr.K.Babu (MLA, to surrender their houses would be given six to the name of CIAL. By the time the airport people opted for six cents of land, whereas 203 Thripunithura, also earlier Chairman of cents of developed land (free of cost). They commenced commercial operations in 1999, CIAL opted for Rs 50,000 as compensation) , which Angamaly Municipality, later became Minister were also given Rs. 20,000 each as shifting had to encounter a total of 1757 legal proceedings sent out a strong message to the public that and director of CIAL), Mr.P. Y. Varghese and charges. The land owners who came for which included reference cases, appeals and the project was indeed taking off. The land Mr. P. K. Ittoop (Presidents, Nedumbassery negotiation were granted a much higher rate petitions in the High Court, and special petitions belonging to others was acquired as per the Panchayath), Mr. M.L. Johny (Chairman, than the market rate (see next chapter for in the Supreme Court. Finally, a total area of proceedings of the Government of Kerala. Angamaly Municipality), Mr. Unni Menon details). Rs. 50,000 was also paid in lieu of six 1254 acres was acquired for the airport. As many as 822 families were rehabilitated. The whole (President, Kanjoor Panchayath), and Mr. cents of land, for those who did not claim it All those who agreed to hand over their process spanned over three pachayaths and one Kannappan (President, Sreemoolanagaram during negotiation. land were entitled to several rehabilitation municipality. Panchayath) took great initiatives to resolve benefits. This unique rehabilitation package, 1003 The land to be acquired was split into 13 Land acquisition 1253 land acquisition issues. After a certain period, which later became a case study for World reference cases acre of land different categories to settle the compensation. Mr.S. Sarma (MLA, Vadakkekara, who later Bank, worked wonders. (see next chapter for PREVAILING NEGOTIATIONS against CIAL was required It ranged from brick pits to land plots with became Minister and director of CIAL) also details) PWD road frontage. KIAS showed a generous became a supporter of the project. Mr. A. P. The project area fell within three Panchayaths approach in fixing the land value for negotiated Even though CIAL believed in maintaining 585 3824 Varkey, then District Secretary of CPI(M) also (Kanjoor, Nedumbassery and Sreemoolanagaram) Appeal cases in Land settlement. For brick pits, which at that time fair deals with the evictees, there was no extended a helping hand. and a Municipality (Angamaly). Each Panchayath had High Court Holdings had a market value of Rs 100/cent were paid dearth of litigation. A total of 1003 reference 10 elected members and the Muncipality had 20. The There were times when the negotiations Rs. 1500 during acquisition for the runway. cases had to be addressed in connection with area fell within the two Assembly Constituencies and that started early in the morning went on When further land was taken for terminal, the land acquisition. The final blow came one Parliament constituency. Thus, about 53 electoral 116 822 until early morning the next day. Frequent 50 % of the earlier settled amount was also from the High Court of Kerala when, in 1996, representatives belonging to various political parties Special leave House petition in discussions were made to convince the evictees paid in addition. For dry land, having road the Single Bench of Justice Balasubramanyam had to be consulted and taken into confidence for the Hold Supreme Court that all their demands would be addressed with access, with an approximate market value of quashed the entire land acquisition process. successful completion of the project. The rehabilitation empathy. Mr. V. J. Kurian often represented Rs. 1,000, was acquired for Rs. 3,500. For later Many feared it would be the end of the project. package thus developed aimed at providing actual 41 CIAL all alone, to expedite the process. To acquisition (for terminal area), again 50 % was However, through complex judicial and benefits for evictees, giving them faith for a better rounds of 53 appease land owners, a unique scheme was also added up. For dry land having direct road litigation procedures, the cases were remanded future. Original petitions in negotiation introduced. connectivity Rs. 8,000 was granted against the to the Single Bench of Justice Benjamin Munsiff Court Boundary wall coming up separating the airside and cityside. View from utility building 1999

| 42 | 43 Evictees were compensated with developed property, jobs and money Rehabilitated area was provided with all civic amenities. Over 530 taxi permits were issued for evictees. Schemes to improve the living standards of evictees. All the 822 evictees who lost houses were given jobs at airport Unique rehabilitation The art of winning hearts... 2 3

he CIAL dream had set equipment, it was a moment of sail, a small team was set emotions and heart aches for the Tup, support came in, the people of Neudmbassery. Many location identified. The next big of them had initially harboured step was to earn possession of serious concerns about the project the land. A huge population of and had even refused to relinquish Nedumbassery and surrounding their property; more of an areas had to be moved to a new emotional outburst than a planned address, a new home. Good-byes protest. But the persuasion skills are never easy, and it was no of Mr. V. J. Kurian and his team different for these people. While as well as the genuineness of the they did appreciate the progress rehabilitation package won people the airport would bring to the over. CIAL has, since then, always state and to their native place, held their safety and security as its letting go off the homes and spaces prime responsibility. required effort. The CIAL team While things did end on a holds in high regard the support happily-ever-after note, the entire and cooperation shown by these process of land acquisition was people, who dedicated their a complex task. CIAL sensed personal properties for a larger the risk factor and so made an public gain. offer that was hard to resist; an As politicians, architects acquisition rate which was much and engineers brainstormed and above the then market rate. But created processes, negotiated that wasn’t tempting enough and 1 deals and facilitated funds and team CIAL had to get up close 1. Original site condition 2,3,4. Rehabilitation area 4

| 44 | 45 and personal with the people. They held several rounds of talks with them, educated them about that is regarded as one of the best testimonies the project, tried to alleviate their anxiety and of its kind in the history of entrepreneurship fear factor, and ensured their safety. The rates, in India. No surprise that the rehabilitation too, were escalated. While there were still package extended by CIAL, today, stands out as some people who went in for litigation, most an exceptional case study across the world. others agreed to the renewed offer and were given 6 cents of land free of cost as part of the Mr. V. J. Kurian strongly believed that rehabilitation package. progress attained fulfilment only when it reflected in the lives of all involved—be it the There were around 3824 land holdings to supporters, investors or the common man, who be acquired for the airport at the start of the gave up even their homes to realise this dream. project. More than two third of the land holders He ensured them the best compensation, both agreed to the rate fixed by CIAL. 1003 owners in terms of money and quality of life. His had approached courts for a better settlement concern for the evictees was genuine and the package. They had a collective holding of association continued for several years, even approximately 800 acres. The court disposed of after the acquisition process was over. He often all the cases. While the lower court granted 96% said “evicting them was like uprooting a well- over the rate fixed by land acquisition officer, grown tree. I tried my best to ensure that they on appeal, the High Court reduced it to 45 were rooted elsewhere in a happier and better %. Therefore, those who came for negotiated environment.” settlement with CIAL got much better deal than those who tried litigation. Things did briefly take an ugly turn when adequate funds were not available to pay All the families who lost their homes and compensation to the evictees. However, things came forward to negotiated settlement were soon swayed in favour of the project as political given 6-cent plots equipped with all necessary leaders, both prominent and local activists, infrastructures or Rs. 50,000. In addition, each unanimously expressed their support to the household was given Rs 20,000 as grant for project, cutting across all political leanings. This demolition of houses and to move to a new move worked favourably and provided sufficient location. Evictees were also permitted to take mileage for the initial kickoff. The evacuation away all useful material from their demolished process and consequent settlement were huge houses, even though compensation was paid challenges that CIAL carried out with precision. for the same. The settlement at enhanced rates With so many people involved and with such was titled ‘Goodwill’ as the landowners were a huge amount of compensation on offer, offering their land under negotiation. the land acquisition of Cochin International The rehabilitation package floated for Airport, perhaps, could be termed the biggest evictees was CIAL’s message to the people, ever process of its kind in Kerala. This unique to society and to the community at large that rehabilitation package later became a case study ‘we care’. This is also a true story of altruism for the World Bank.

Taxi entourage-1999 A portion of Chengal thodu seen dry -1995

| 46 | 47 New home, a new life! Team CIAL had bigger and more long term plans for these people and their families. The rehabilitation package included not just CIAL also went beyond the prescribed the allotment of land but also numerous other welfare measures and associated itself with a benefits as well. As the airport’s commercial range of social outreach and welfare programmes operations took flight, several hundreds of job in and around Nedumbassery. They generously opportunities were thrown open to the local funded for various public amenities like roads, population. Several hundreds of them could drainage, drinking water, street lighting and also earn a permanent source of income. Of the for maintaining and renovating public utilities displaced, 150 individuals were absorbed as direct like schools and primary health centre. employees of CIAL. The pre-paid taxi scheme for airport passengers was originally designed to The diversion of Chengalthodu, be operated exclusively by the evictees. Over construction of Avanamcode road that connects 1 2 530 were given taxi permits, and hundreds of Nayathodu and Akapparampu, and a peripheral 1 others were accommodated in various aviation road connecting Nayathodu and Kanjoor were activities including ground handling and cargo also funded and executed by CIAL. The area handling. The placements at CIAL was done in which was allotted to the displaced families as a very fair and transparent manner. A relaxation part of the rehabilitation package is now known in the eligibility criteria was given to evictees as Airport Colony. and were absorbed for unskilled jobs at CIAL. Today, those who had vehemently protested Relaxation in age was granted for evictees for against the airport project and objected to the the selection process of skilled jobs. Cargo takeover of their land have turned out to be loaders, drivers, sweepers and other attendants strong ambassadors of the airport. For many, were selected from the neighbourhood. Many who have been absorbed by the airport, CIAL of the evictees also found jobs as external cargo is like an ancestral home. It’s been a long and loaders, for loading and unloading jobs with happy relationship, and people know they export and import agencies. can turn up at CIAL’s administrative block Thus, by August 2014, all evictees were with invitations for their family occasions like offered livelihood benefits through direct weddings or birthday ceremonies. It is more employment in CIAL or its various subsidiary than a commercial association, and evokes many divisions, shops and other facilities at the emotional ties for the people. Bonds beyond airport. Over 1500 employment opportunities business stay longer, grow stronger! 2 3 were made available to the evictees in the airport project either directly or indirectly as well as 1. Rehabilitation colony 1. K.Karunakaran briefing the media about the airport project. Ramaswamy, CMD, KITCO, K.V.Thomas, MP, T.M.Jacob and Ramachandran Nair, Chief Secretary are also seen-1995 2. Bituminous road in rehabilitation colony 2. Original site condition-1994. 3. Water pump station for rehabilitation colony through other agencies operating at the airport. 3 3. Rehabilitation colony

| 48 | 49 The GREEN SIGNAL

ell begun is half done, it’s said. But in the case of CIAL, it worked in the reverse. What got off Wto a rather difficult and bumpy start, saw things move favourably once the civil works got rolling . On 15th November 1995, the project received the much awaited clearance from the Ministry of Environment and Forests as well as sanction from the Aviation Ministry. Statutory approvals from the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of India, Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Airport Authority of India (AAI) and Government of Kerala among others, came its way. During a span of five years, while the airport was in its various stages of construction, CIAL had to deal with several ministers from both centre and state, numerous bureaucrats, chairmen of AAI and other officials—which were deftly and diplomatically handled by Mr. V.J. Kurian. Thoughtful actions and smart decisions helped CIAL streamline its liaison with everyone involved, and avoid Photos of rehabilitation colony where CIAL provided developed plots, facilitated infrastructure amenities and public utilities for the evictees A site inspection by P.V. Jayakrishnan, Secretary Civil Aviation. V.J. Kurian, ACK Nair, Bhaskar Rao are aslo seen-1998 unwanted delays in implementing the project.

| 50 | 51 Diverting high tension Realigning line canal ith the conscious decision to go he formative days of CIAL threw in ahead with the International Airport a different challenge each day; a lot Wproject, hurdles seem to be cleared Tof time was spent dealing with issues almost as quickly as they came up. Along related to infrastructure development. Being with the shifting of the high-tension electrical a pioneering attempt, CIAL had no reference lines, Chengal Thode, a small creek and three projects to emulate; the team was mostly on irrigation canals flowing through the area of its own, deriving ways to handle hurdles and the proposed runway needed to be realigned. overcome pressures. The place where the These canals were the lifelines of local habitat runway today stands initially had three 110 and, quite understandably, the team faced severe KV high tension electrical lines running across, opposition from the people. erected by Kerala State Electricity Board. This The CIAL team dealt with this challenge as was a potential hazard to airport operations. it did others, giving people the assurance that a These needed to be moved at least 10,000 feet canal diversion would not affect their lives, as away from the end of the runway. Removal of sufficient alternate irrigation systems would be these without causing power outage was a huge implemented. Several rounds of discussion were challenge. Finally, after several negotiations, held at different levels to find a solution for the and spending huge amount of money, the matter. Ultimately, the Chengal Thode was electrical lines were shifted to a new place realigned, making way for the runway. thereby clearing the way for the airport runway. A portion of Chengal thodu-1995 One of the 110 KV HT lines that posed major challenge for the project | 52 | 53 The ‘miracle’ tree

Relocating he journey of CIAL was marked with not just conflicts and controversies, but also interesting anecdotes and stories. One such is Tthe tale of the Miracle Tree. Once the land was claimed, the entire shrines stretch of the proposed airside was cleared up for construction of the runway, taxi track and drains, barring a lone mammoth tree. It stood at almost the centre of the stretch demarcated for the runway. Branching out hile it seemed, at this point in time, there was no and spreading shade, the tree remained the only rest spot in the otherwise obstacle insurmountable for CIAL, from the high- barren area. As the only touch of green and comfort spot for a whole barren Wtension line to canal realignment, there came the field, the tree was maintained to provide shelter and shade. However, with issue of relocating temples and churches. As is with most only a single tree standing tall, it soon led to hearsay tales of the tree and things religious in India, this touched a highly sensitive nerve in its divine powers. While work progressed, the tree watched over and stood the community surrounding the proposed airport. However, witness to every stage of construction. However, soon the lone tree became as came to be the norm in Team CIAL, this was also dealt a topic of discussion, with people spreading tales about the tree’s divine and with skilfully and diplomatically with unfailing confidence. magical powers. It was elevated to a holy status and people objected to its Keezhperiyaram Temple and Pathi Aaradhanalayam were removal. Workers too fell for the superstitions and feared to cut it. Things shifted. The trimming of a banyan tree at the Avanamcode worsened as a prominent newspaper brought out a front-page report about Saraswathy temple and reducing the height of the holy cross at the ‘miracle tree’ of Nedumbassery. People from different parts of the state the Little Flower Church at Thuravunkara were testimonials thronged to see the tree and worship it. There were demands that the place of solidarity expressed by the locals that cut through religious be treated as a shrine. sentiments. It turned out to be more of an ‘obstacle tree’ for CIAL with the The vast expanse of land earmarked for the international construction of the runway reaching a near-standstill. The Team CIAL had airport included cultivable land, parts of inhabited villages and to find a way out of this situation. This time, nature stepped in to help! places of worship. Thus, if any place of worship had to be The famed Kerala monsoon had just begun; heavy downpour was wreaking shifted to a new place, it had to be done with the absolute havoc across the state. On one such stormy night, by using earth moving consent of the people of the region. With the ease and equipments, the so-called miracle tree was pushed down to the ground. perfection that Team CIAL came to be known for, people of People believed it fell to nature’s fury, expressed their regret and moved on. the region were convinced and priests of both churches and With the obstacle out of its way, work on the runway continued peacefully. temples agreed with the relocation plan. Soon after, following several rounds of discussion by Mr. Kurian with religious Finally, when the whole process of land acquisition was over, CIAL was authorities, both the churches and temples were relocated to in possession of sufficient land. Today, it is this land that gives CIAL wings nearby areas with the wholehearted support of the people. to expand and diversify to other projects. Façade of Little Flower Church, Thuravumkara. The `cross’ has been lowered to avoid obstacle in flight path The miracle tree seen intact | 54 | 55 Bhaskar Rao Abraham Joseph R. Venkiteswaran ACK Nair A.M. Shabeer Sundar Raman G. Ganesan Jiji Ramesh Alex Varghese Kalyana Sundaram I.C. Anna The Team

product is as good as the team that builds They include: it. This was perfect in the case of CIAL. N.U. Bhaskara Rao, who joined as a project K.P. Thankachan T.R. Gopalakrishna C.V. Ajit Kumar C. Dinesh Kumar Paul Kocheril Bini T.I. Lenny Sebastian Abdul Zalam M.K. Sathesh Pai Tony P.J. Rajendran T. Helmed by an honest, vigilant and highly A manager, led the team through turbulent times motivated team, the triumph of CIAL was the result of sheer hard work and the single-minded and later became the first Airport Director of dedication of the team that turned around the CIAL. Abraham Joseph who joined as a project fortunes of CIAL. engineer played an instrumental role in the construction of runways, taxiways and all basic CIAL could scale the ladder of success in no civil activities. A. C. K. Nair ,executive engineer time, thanks to the visionary zest and unmatched from National Airport Authority (NAA) joined Jessy Paul Gopinathan Balakrishnan Kuriakose Raman Nair Rathnakumar P.B. Elby Grace Mathew Tomy Davis Ushadevi T.P. Jyothi N. leadership displayed by its founder managing on deputation to lead the electrical division and director, Mr. V. J. Kurian. While an enthusiastic has been serving as the airport director since 2004. in-house team worked against all odds, they A.M. Shabeer was also an executive engineer on were ably aided by a group of consultants who deputation from NAA to lead the construction toiled relentlessly to translate the dream of an team of the terminal building, and now serves as international airport into a reality. executive director (Engineering). R. Ganesan led the Mechanical Engineering team. Sunder Raman, Usual epithets apart, Cochin International Sankar V. Bindu P. Das Dominic Fernandez Binoj R. Krishnakumar K.G. Kavitha George Sajan L.R. Sajan Zacharia Saji P.I. Sreekala P.P. Gangadevi K.V. Airport could be termed as a definite milestone an expert in communications played a vital role in in the economic and entrepreneurial development establishing the communication network of CIAL. map of Kerala. It articulates and underlines the fact Alex Varghese served CIAL as general manager that the prescription for success in any endeavour (Finance), Jiji Ramesh joined CIAL to head HR may not necessarily be scripted with the pooling and later became Deputy General Manager and of funds alone, but more out of conviction and Airport director. R. Venkateswaran was CIAL’s commitment to reach the specified goal. Though first company secretary and went on to become small in number, ‘Team CIAL’ worked in sync in executive director (Finance) and post retirement, Indira P.K. Jackson D Padayattil Jalaja P.K. Jessy E.V. Binoy K. Jose Binu K.K. Eldo K.A. Ashraf K.P. Mohanan P. Shiby Paul Babu Itoop chasing their dream. Both literally and figuratively, he now serves as the managing director of CIASL. it seemed like nothing could hinder their success T.N. Kalyanasundaram joined as an executive path and douse the flame of optimism. For them, engineer. K.P. Thankachan joined CIAL as it was both a passion and devotion. These were assistant executive engineer and now serves as personalities who envisioned a dream and took a general manager (Civil). T.R. Gopalakrishna great risk to achieve it. Innovators, inventors, and joined as asst. executive engineer and now serves V.J. Kurian with some of the members of team CIAL adventurers, they marched to a beat of their own. as general manager (Civil). C.V. Ajitkumar who Baby K.P. Baiju A.I. Geethamma K.V. George Gincy M Paul Hari T.K. Harikrishnan N.P. Abu P.M. Ajithkumar T.K. Alias T.K. Latha K.V.

| 56 | 57 Rahel Sabore Manoj V.K. Rashida K.K. Manojkumar P.G.

Sabore M.T. Sabore T.V. Mary Avarachan M.R. Dinesh Kumar

Some of the members `TEAM CIAL’ on the inaugural day

joined as asst. executive engineer (Electrical), Sathesh Kumar Pai The professional team was also now serves as deputy general joined as asst. engineer now serves as assisted by the following persons in Sajeev V.S. Nyjo Paul Shaiju K.J. A.V. Poulose manager (Electrical), P.J.Tony who senior manager (Electrical), Tomy various capacities. joined as asst. executive engineer Davis joined as asst. engineer now P. Mohanan, Saji P. I., Jessy E.V., now serves as asst. general manager serves as senior manager (Electrical), Sreekala P. P., Gincy Paul, Indira (Electrical), Lenny Sebastian who I. C. Anna led the team for land P. K., Latha K. V., Binoy K. Jose, joined as deputy manager now acquisition and later joined CIAL Shiby Paul, Sajan L.R., Jackson D. serves as deputy general manager as manager (Land acquisition); Padayattil, Ajayakumar T.K., Ganga (Finance), Paul J. Kocheril joined V.U. Kuriakose, T. S. Raman Shiju A.R. Sivadasan P.K. Poly Alias Sidhan T.K. Devi K. V., Binu K.K., Babu Ittoop, as asst. engineer and now serves as Nair, C. Balakrishnan and A. K. George M.M. (Late), Ashraf K.P., deputy general manager (Cargo), Retnakumaran Nair also worked Hari Krishnan N.P., Antu K.V., C. Dinesh Kumar joined as asst. with the land acquisition team. M.R. Dinesh Kumar, Sajeev V.S., engineer and now serves as deputy Biju A.I., N. Vishwanathan (Rtd), A team consisting of Binoj general manager (Operations), T. Abu P.M., Mr. Madhusoodanan, I. Bini who joined as asst. engineer R., Bindu P. Das, Dominic John T.V., Avarachan, Premkumar now serves as deputy general Fernandez, V. Sankar, Jyothi N., S.R. (late), Anil Kumar K., Prakasan Anilkumar Antu K.V. Viswanathan Prakasan K.K. manager (Civil), Jessy Paul who K.G. Krishnakumar, T.P. Usha K.K., Baby K.P., V.K. Manoj, Alias joined as asst. engineer now serves as Devi, Sajan Zachariah, Veneetha T.K., Nyjo Paul, Poly Alias, Shaiju senior manager (Civil), Rajendran T and Durga provided support in K.J., M.T. Saboor, Eldo K.A., Hari joined as asst. engineer now serves as administrative, financial, secretarial T.K., Shiju A.R., P.K. Sivadasan, Mr. senior manager (Civil), Gopinathan and in-house engineering divisions. Sudhan T.K., Mr. M.V. Avarachan, worked as site engineer, M.K. The support of Kavitha George, Ms. Rahsida K.K., Ms. Geethamma Abdul Zalam joined as asst. engineer Manoj P.G., Grace Mathews, and K.V., Jalaja P.K., Rahel Sabore and Avarachan M.V. John T.V. Premkumar S.R. Avarachan T.T now serves as senior manager P.B. Elby is also worth mentioning. Mary Avarachan. An airport in the making | 58 | 59 THE CONSTRUCTION

uring 1997, the civil works of airport planning. A. M. Shabeer and Terminals and other crucial A.C.K. Nair, who were both executive Dstructures like the Air Traffic engineers on deputation from NAA, Control Tower began. On 15th January led the civil and electrical engineering 1997, the foundation stone for the teams. Shabeer headed the planning and international terminal was laid by development for the terminal buildings, Mr.V.J.Kurian. The terminal building fire station and cargo building. He was construction contract was awarded assisted by T. R. Gopalakrishna and to M/s M. K. Builders Private Ltd., asst. engineers Bini T. I., Jessy Paul, Mr. Bangalore. Rajendran T., Sajan Zacharia, T. P. Usha The National Airport Authority Devi and Krishnakumar. Gangadevi (NAA) team, led by N. U. Bhaskara and Shiby formed the support staff at Rao, was passionately involved in all the project site. A.C.K.Nair headed aspects of design and construction. the electrical engineering team and They guided and motivated the KITCO executed ground lighting system, the team who were designing an airport power supply distribution system terminal for the first time. Bhaskar and electrical works of terminal and Rao was responsible for the overall auxiliary buildings. The diversion of

1. Land filling in progress 2. Site inspection by Jayakrishnan, Secretary, Civil Aviation, V.J. Kurian, S.H. Khola, DGCA, Abraham Joseph, Project Eng., 1 2 Dinesh Kumar, Asst. Eng. are also seen

| 60 | 61 The team heads

Bhaskar Rao Abraham Joseph ACK Nair A.M. Shabeer Sundar Raman G. Ganesan

EHT lines belonging to the KSEB that team to review its progress, never mincing crossed the runway was a major challenge, words when it came to tough decision and he was ably assisted by C.V. Ajit making. His main focus was timely Kumar, P.J. Tony, Abdul Zalam ,Sathesh completion of the project, and for this, he Kumar Pai, Tomy Davis (engineers) and ensured that work always moved on in an Binu K. K. The highly complicated IT and unobstructed manner. telecommunication network was safe in the Initially the total project cost was hands of Sunder Raman, while Ganesan pegged at Rs 288.616 crores. And at the handled all the mechanical and HVAC jobs. time of inauguration, in 1999, the total On completion of the deputation period, constructed cost stood at Rs 303 crores.The Bhaskar Rao, Sundar Raman and Ganesan construction of the Air Traffic Control returned to their parent organization. tower and technical block was awarded A.C.K. Nair and A.M. Shabeer joined CIAL to HSCL constructions. The foundation in responsible positions, later assuming stone for the ATC tower was laid on 5th key roles as ED-Operations and ED- June 1997, by Mr. V. J. Kurian. The 52m Engineering. A. C. K Nair became Airport block had a total area of 5040 sq.m and was Director in 2004. constructed at a cost of Rs. 3.93 crores. A Under V. J. Kurian’s watchful eye, the utility building with 2047 sq.m was built for airport design and its construction began to Rs. 1.22 crores and the cargo substation was ATC Tower unfold. He held frequent sessions with his built at a cost of Rs 28.57 lakhs. Cochin International airport project stage | 62 | 63 1 2 1 2

5 1. P.V.Jayakrishnan and V.J.Kurian at ATC construction site 2. Terminal construction in progress-1997 4 3. ATC construction in progress-1998 1. Aerobridge installation-1999 4. Batching plant of KMC for bitumen mixing-1998 2. Terminal building-1997 5. DGCA officials inspect ATC construction progress. NUB Rao, A.M.Shabeer and Ganesan 3. Terminal building-1998 3 4 are also seen-1998 3 4. DVOR building-1999

| 64 | 65 15 canals diverted lakhs cubic meter huge ponds leveled soil was required 3 temples shifted for earth filling

process. Therefore, arrangements were made As of today, the 3400-metre long, for sourcing the same from Cochin Refineries, 45-metre wide, Code 4E Runway with which ensured faster progress of work. Boeing-747-400 as critical aircraft, stands as Layered Runway Construction one of the most remarkable highlights of CIAL. This apart, it boasts of a full-length The Runway A consolidated layer of good lateritic soil Code E parallel taxi track, one rapid exit & murram was followed by 93,110 CUM of taxiway and associated taxi links. The other granular sub base (GSB), over which 59,004 infrastructure for aircraft operations include he very spinal cord of any airport was meant to be built remained in CUM of wet mix macadam (WMM) was laid. 5 contact stands, 11 remote stands to cater is its runway. And, for Cochin CIAL’s fold. Col. V. E. Namboodiri After this, 18,613 CUM of dense bituminous to both wide and narrow-bodied aircraft, TInternational Airport, it was joined the team as chief engineer at macadam (DBM) formed the next layer, and 4 stands for General Aviation aircraft, that spinal cord that came into being this point. The project engineer for the 14,971 CUM of semi dense asphaltic concrete CAT-1 Instrument Landing System, CAT- even while land acquisition was still runway construction was Abraham (SDAC) was the penultimate layer with 1 Runway and Approach Lighting Systems, underway. It was V.J. Kurian’s sole Joseph, who was ably assisted by 10,483 CUM forming the topmost layer of Surveillance RADAR ASR/MSSR, fully decision not to wait for the completion Kalyanasundaram, K.P.Thankachan dense asphaltic concrete (DAC). Creation of equipped Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting of land acquisition to go for the tender and Paul J. Kocheril, Dinesh Kumar taxiway and taxi links were also on similar services maintaining Category-9 operational for the 3400-metre long runway, which and Bini T.I. Project management lines, but a full-length taxi track was cut down readiness equipped with disabled aircraft was then, the second longest runway in consultancy was given to the EMA- to a shorter one, due to financial constraints recovery equipment and MRO facility with 2 the country, after New Delhi. CIAL Natpac consortium, led by Rajagopal and immediate operational requirement. hangars for narrow-bodied aircraft. invited tenders for the construction and H.S. Bhatia. CIAL is also indebted of the runway in 1994. The tenders to C.V.Nair, chief engineer of AAI, for were opened in February 1995. The his invaluable contribution. The terrain challenges contract for constructing the runway The special category of bitumen The land for the proposed runway consisted of huge pits dug for mining of clay for was awarded to KMC Constructions required for runway construction was the production of bricks, marshy/slushy areas and paddy fields. Chengal Thode, three Ltd. at a cost of Rs. 71.97 crores. While to be obtained from Chennai in large different canals and at least three big ponds (including a huge one known as Poonkulam), awarding the contract, CIAL had only quantities. This was in short supply were hindering the runway construction. The first task was to dry up the entire area less than 20 % of the required land for and further transportation related by removing slush and levelling the pits. The terrain being weak and of inadequate the runway to be constructed. issues delayed the entire procurement strength for supporting the runway, CIAL consulted IIT Chennai for necessary soil A fairly daunting task, CIAL stabilization works. IIT, after conducting detailed soil analysis, suggested methods for strengthening of sub-soil, which were meticulously followed by CIAL. attempted both construction of the runway as well as acquisition of the In 1999, when the runway was completed, this stood as the second longest in the country required land simultaneously. The after Delhi International Airport. While the construction of the runway without having whole area was waterlogged and sufficient land in possession and lack of funds was a huge risk, Mr. Kurian felt this was marshy with the soil remaining slushy the only way to lead the project to a point of ‘no return’. throughout the year. To top it all, only a part of the land where the runway Rajagopal H.S. Bhatia Runway construction in progress

| 66 | 67 Runway Specification

Runway orientation 27-09 Runway length 3400 m Runway width 45 m Runway end safety area 240 X 90; both sides Shoulders 7.5 m Taxi way width 23 m Taxi shoulders 10.5 m Basic strips 300 m Dist.between taxiway and runway CL 192 m Peripheral Road 10.5 Km

Major Contractors involved in project execution

Runway & Apron : KMC Constructions Ltd. Air Traffic Control Tower : HSCL Constructions Ltd. Terminal Building : MK Builders Ltd Bangalore 11 KV Substation : Andrew Yule and Co., Calcutta Baggage Conveyors : Gannon Dunkerly & Co. False Ceiling : Indecor Slides Fire Alarm & Fire Fighting : Kamal Jain Associates Interior Furnishing : Payyappilly Woods Aerobridges : Shenzhen CIMC Tianda Flight Information System : Philips India Ltd. Tandem Metallic Chairs : Godrej & Boyce Mfg. Co. Ltd. Trolleys : Posh Decor Internal Electrification : HPC Electricals Pvt. Ltd. Escalators : Otis Car Park : M K Builders Pvt. Ltd. High Mast Lighting : Reunion Engineering Airfield Crash Fire Tenders : Rosenbauer Austria X–ray Baggage Inspection System : E G & G Astrophysics USA “ Indian “ to take off | 68 | 69 The Architecture blending tradition and modernity

perfect blend of urbanity and tradition, the organisation, who had no previous experience in architecture of Cochin International Airport designing an airport. Prompted by the confidence that Astands out as a marvel in minimalism and Mr. Kurian had in them, they took up the challenge. functionality. It is one of the best things to have N. U. B. Rao was given the task of leading the project happened to the airport project. The appeal and execution team and also for dealing with KITCO. impact of the airport terminal is such that, it has come After contemplating many models, Kurian and his to be identified as one of the architectural landmarks of team resorted to Kerala temple architecture for which Kerala, thus drawing significant attention worldwide. KITCO assigned Jeff Antony, an architect, to provide a draft design. The design details provided by Jeff Antony One of the important elements that determines and took everyone by surprise. A state-of-the-art, fully enhances the architectural uniqueness of any edifice is its natural setting. Kochi airport is no different. The functional terminal with all passenger amenities at an P.A. Ramaswamy aesthetics of CIAL is defined by its unique Kerala affordable cost was finalised for the project. The KITCO temple architecture with the tone and texture of the team led by Dr.P.A. Ramaswamy, managing director, terminals’ roof tiles radiating traditional warmth and with M.I. Varghese, executive director, Cyriac Davies charm. , senior consultant, Jose Thomas P, Senior consultant, Johnson Joseph, consultant, Alex T.J, consultant, and The story line of building an airport terminal G.Shelly, consultant worked in tandem with team

with traditional Kerala architecture exemplifies Team CIAL to make the design functional. The design was M. I. Varghese Cyriac Davies CIAL’s brilliant brand positioning and pragmatism. finally accepted, and CIAL engaged KITCO as the A modern airport with best passenger amenities was design and project management consultants. the dream of the CIAL team. Keeping this in mind, tenders were invited to select consultants for providing While the low-cost design for the terminal was the design and master plan. In December 1995, the created out of necessity and affordability, there was tender for consultancy services was awarded to M/S. severe scepticism when traditional temple architecture Hellmuth Obata & Kassabuam Inc. (HOK), USA. design was adopted for the terminal buildings. HOK came up with a high-end but regular design Interestingly, later, the same aspect turned out to be one Jose Thomas P. Alex T. J. satisfying contemporary architecture for an airport, of the most appreciated features of cochin international costing around Rs 400 crore. However, CIAL at that airport. Today, unlike most other airports in India, time was working around an estimate of Rs 200 crore. CIAL terminals command exclusivity owing to its The project, once more, seemed to hit a dead end. distinctive architectural splendour. The charm and V.J. Kurian’s persistent hunt for a design consultant aesthetic appeal derived from local flavour has made who would work on shoestring budget landed him at the terminals as one of the most photographed airports KITCO, a government-owned engineering consultancy in the country. G. Shelly Johnson Joseph

| 70 | 71 1 2 The project gets Ready

y 1999, the Cochin International similar amenities were completed. Airport had acquired a definitive However, there remained a few issues shape. One of the longest B like the objections raised by the Director runways in the country, with a critical General of Civil Aviation regarding aircraft capacity of a Boeing 747-400 inadequate visibility while landing, and and a 1000m long taxi track, an apron environmental issues for the location for 3 wide-body and 5 narrow-body 4 of the DVOR building (Doppler very aircrafts and CAT1 system of lighting high frequency omni-directional radio was ready for receiving metal birds. The range - a navigation system for aircraft) ATC terminal, with its sophisticated in the forest land at Thattekkad. There communication and navigation were also protests from a section of equipment and facilities, was also people against the closure of the Navy operational. An International terminal Airport at Willingdon Island. However, of 1.25 lakh sqft area in 2 floors along ‘Team CIAL’ stood its ground. Two with 20 check-in counters, escalators things kept them going—the convincing and X-ray baggage inspections system as stewardship of Mr. V.J. Kurian and 1. A Navy Helicopter landed at the airport before inauguration during initial days well as the domestic terminal of 1 lakh the unstinted support provided by the 2. Dornier aircraft, the calibration flight of AAI, piloted by Capt. Garg landed as the first aircraft at Cochin International Airport sqft area with 10 check-in counters and Government of Kerala. 3. People watching the calibration flight 3 4. Exuberant CIAL Team led by V.J. Kurian in front of the calibration flight Terminal building at the time of inauguration

| 72 | 73 1 A dream come true

n the second week of May 1999, dignitaries including Mr. Sukhdev an Indian Navy helicopter Singh Kang, Hon’ble Governor of Ilanded in the airport (apron). Kerala, Mr. E. K. Nayanar, Hon’ble On 15th May 1999, a Dornier Chief Minister of Kerala, and Mr. aircraft, the calibration flight of Ananth Kumar, Hon’ble Union Airport Authority of India, piloted Minister of Civil Aviation and by Capt. Garg, landed on the Mr.K.Karunakaran were witness runway, which was the first aircraft to touch Cochin International to that historic moment. With Airport. Ultimately, on the 25th that, an altogether new chapter of May 1999, Cochin International was scripted in the history of not Airport was dedicated to the nation just civil aviation but also on the by the Hon’ble President of India, overall infrastructure development Mr. K. R. Narayanan. A host of front in our country.

2 1. K. Karunakaran addresses the gathering 2. Ananth kumar arrives for the function Hon. President K.R.Narayanan, Usha Narayanan, E.K.Nayanar, Chief Minister, Anantha Kumar, Union Minister for Civil Aviation, V.J.Kurian and S.Sarma during the inaugural day of Cochin International Airport-25th May 1999 | 74 | 75 2 5

3 4 6

The president’s remark unveiled the light at the end of the tunnel, there was standing ovation even from As CIAL is having a dream run with the those cynics who looked at the project in coveted status of a charming prince of the its initial days with loads of apprehension. 1. K.R. Narayanan, President of India lighting Queen of Arabian Sea, the roads that Mr. His efforts were lauded by the enthused the lamp 2. Chief Minister E.K. Nayanar lighting the lamp Kurian has traversed are umpteen. The crowd who gathered on the inaugural day. 3. The diginitaries sharing lighter moment at the hurdles that he has surpassed are aplenty. function During his speech, the President of India 4. A letter of appreciation from the president The obstacles that he wiped away are congratulated Mr.Kurian for completing 5. Air India’s Alliance Air flight with central govt. officials innumerable. And as he touched his dream, the country’s first commercial airport 6. People watching the departure of Alliance Air flight brought and presented it before the world, under Public Private Participation. 7. V.J. Kurian, Founder managing director 1 addresses the gathering 7

| 76 | 77 The first flight

e it a corporate body or terminal aero bridge smoothly. an individual, some firsts AAI’s guidance, navigation Bin life will always remain services, MET departments’ etched in their memory. Nothing meteorological services, 2 3 can match the sensation when immigration, customs, ground one attempts at recollecting those handling, fuelling, security and rare, maiden moments in one’s even the pre-paid taxi services life. And for CIAL, the day worked in tandem as if, they when the maiden flight took to were doing the same thing for the air from its runway, it was years here. the fulfilment of a long cherished Among the welcoming dream. dignitaries and exuberant crowd, The credit for having one man, Mr.V.J.Kurian stood operated the first flight to and with composure. Six years of from Cochin International toils, agony and hardships might Airport goes to Air India, the have flashed through his mind. He was a contented man; thanking 4 national carrier. Without a single hitch….without a steep turn…. each and every one, proponents Air India’s flight from Dhahran and detractors alike, and most (now Dammam)to Cochin, AI importantly, the God Almighty, 916 named “ Cauvery “ landed at for all his achievements. the heart of Cochin international Out in the premises On 7th June 1999, the MoU for Air traffic Jayakrishnan IAS, the Civil Aviation Secretary, airport at 10.55 a.m on 10th June the festivities started. The control service at Cochin International Airport on the same day. The very next day, June 8, 1999, with 203 passengers and 16 surroundings were decked with was signed by AAI and CIAL. History was, 1999, Mr. H. S. Kohla, the DGCA handed over crew members on board. Seconds festoons, flags and buntings. The thus, created with AAI entering into the first- after, it docked to international unusually large crowd of people ever commercial agreement with an Indian a message from the head office to Mr. Kurian Airport Operator for its service. The ATC that was an insignia for an incredible future - 1. First flight docking at the bay 2. Passengers of the first flight arrive at Cochin International Airport tower and block was inaugurated by Mr.P.V. the ‘Airport Operating License’. 3. Passengers waiting for their baggages 1 4. Crew members of the first flight with V.J. Kurian and his wife Mariamma Kurian

| 78 | 79 occupied all available places, buildings, roofs, tree tops and even close to taxi At 1.40 p.m. the departure of the AI way to see the first plane landing in ‘their 916 took off from India’s path breaking own airport'. The drizzle and state- airport; the Cochin International Airport wide hartal had virtually no impact and with 103 passengers onboard. And did not dampen their enthusiasm. They thus came into being, the first green field waved their hands, greeted each other airport in the country under a unique and welcomed the huge metal bird with Public-Private Partnership (PPP). It had ineffable joy. several first-of-its-kind epithets to its It was an emotional moment for many credit. Perhaps, it’s the first airport to others too. After a long period of toil, have come up in the country with a shoe- pain, anxiety and hardships, a dream was string budget of approximately Rs 300 coming true. Amidst exuberant outbursts 1 crores. And, the project which initially from a joyful crowd, the first passenger Mr. took off with a minimal amount of Rs Abdul Raoof, a native of Aluva deplaned. 20,000, over the years, has turned out He was received at the aerobridge and to be flourishing centre of aviation and presented with flowers, sweets and a gold business activity, thereby becoming a role sovereign. Mr.V.J.Kurian, the architect model of sorts. of the dream project and Mariamma The landing of Boeing 747 Jumbo on Kurian, his wife and the entire team 21st June, 1999 was another landmark. CIAL welcomed the passengers and crew The first time a jumbo was landing in as if they were their family guests. The the state. The Air India 747 ‘ Mahendra day also witnessed the first flight taking Varman ’ on the Mumbai-Kochi-Abu off from the airport. Mr.Alex Mathew, Dhabi-Dubai sector landed at Cochin a resident of Padamukal near Kochi was International Airport at 3.20 pm with 410 the first passenger to check in at 9.45 a.m passengers and 22 tonne cargo. The jumbo for the Air India return flight to Dhahran. landing had set aside all the apprehensions One of the passengers was Mr. Thomas and speculations about the airport’s Karumathy, a native of Keezhe pariyaram capacity. And above all....It paved the way Kara, who lost his house and land for the for another journey; a journey to better airport and was happy because he could go hopes and bigger dreams... to the Gulf from his native place instead of going through Trivandrum. 1. People who climbed over the roof top of the terminal Discarding the security arrangements made by the officials building to watch the first flight are struggling to come down the common people flocked at the apron to watch the take off after the flight took off of the first flight - Courtesy: Malayala Manorama 2 2. People watching the takeoff of first flight

| 80 | 81 Director Board Members - 1999

E.K. Nayanar V.J. Kurian IAS chairman managing director

S. Sarma Baby John P.P. Thankachan M. Mohan Kumar IAS M.A. Yusaffali Minister Minister M.L.A. Chief Secretary

C.V. Jacob Mohamed Ali N.V. george E.M. Babu S. Sundresan, Director, Finance, HUDCO Tumultuous welcome from people of Kerala who celebrated 10th June 1999 as Travel Utsav. At 1.40 pm, the departure of AI916 from Cochin to Dehran marked first commercial take off from India’s path breaker airport; Cochin International Airport | 82 | 83 which were proved wrong even in the initial years of operation. During its first phase, the airport company had roped in foreign airliners by offering them flexible tariff packages and it was through several such moves that CIAL could turn around its fortunes from a meagre 17 flights per day during its first year of operations The case studies to 31 at the end of five years. The descriptive study truly endorses the inimitable project that, in its own way, rewrote the aviation history in obstacles it faced during the initial years. he inspiring story of Cochin the Indian subcontinent. International Airport, over the Another study that was done by the famed years, has become a role model of The third study was undertaken by Indian T Indian Institute of Management – Ahmedabad entrepreneurship in India. And, in the Institute of Management, Kozhikode (IIM-K) (IIM-A), and aptly titled as ‘Governance Issues process, it has come to be identified as ‘CIAL under the caption ‘V.J.Kurian and the CIAL in Airport Development – Learning from Model’. Today, CIAL is a subject matter of Saga – Kurian’s Success on Cochin International Cochin International Airport Ltd’ also peeps reference for budding entrepreneurs, students Airport Ltd’ also hails the daring administrative into the initial struggles that ‘Team CIAL’ and faculties of business management, and skill and diplomatic dexterity of Mr V.J.Kurian, also for motivational speakers and corporate had to confront in the making of the airport. the founder managing director of CIAL. trainers. Thus, it has also paved way for a The study was carried out by Biju Varkkey The study was undertaken by Dr number of studies on its progression. The and G.Raghuram and, unlike the earlier one, P.Rameshan and Dr S. Jeyavelu. During the studies, carried out by various institutions narrates the story of its unique design in course of their study, they stress the fact that of international repute, have analytically raising funds for the project. The elaborate the role of Mr. Kurian in the airport project explored many of its facets in an objective study highlights some of the significant was something extraordinary and also expresses manner. Notably, over a period of past one turning points that CIAL could achieve in their doubt whether anybody else could have decade alone, noteworthy studies were carried its march towards becoming an undisputed 1 completed the project at all, and, even if it was out by Harvard University, Indian Institute leader in aviation sector in India. possible, whether they could have matched, of Management, Ahmadabad and Indian The perils of land acquisition, the turbulent even remotely, the cost and time frames that Institute of Management, Kozhikode. These Mr.Kurian had achieved. studies were focused on different aspects period of fund raising and the hurdles of concerning the airport. rehabilitation were the key areas to which They also reiterate that Mr. V.J.Kurian was the study had given special attention to. The full of ideas, often totally novel, and he knew The Kennedy School of Government study vividly recounts the arduous journey how to implement them with perfect team work. under Harvard University in its study titled undertaken by CIAL before scripting a success The story of CIAL is one of determination, ‘Cochin International Airport – The Gateway story and has classified their observations persistence, leadership, financial discipline, and to God’s Own Country’ observed that CIAL rather elaborately under various captions the ability to operationalise ideas and plans was seen as a potential model not just in India, such as land compensation, financial resource under difficult conditions. but in other parts of the world as well. It mobilization, revenue model, rehabilitation also underlined the fact that the airport has All the above studies substantiated the and resettlement, risk mitigation and staffing. accelerated the tourism potential of Kerala in character and contours of Cochin International a big way and vividly narrates the hardships The study also points out the various Airport and its leadership in an objective and challenges faced by the airport authorities strategies that CIAL had adopted when the manner. in raising funds and equities for the project and venture was at its crucial crossroads. At one observed that the company had accomplished point the authors expressed their concerns 1. Harvard campus 2. IIM Kozhikode nothing less than a miracle, given the many about the financial viability of the airport; Domestic terminal block 2 3 3. IIM Ahmedabad

| 84 | 85 THE CIAL MODEL

ochin International Airport is 2013-14 with an average of 1100 aircraft the first green field airport in the movements per week. The company has Ccountry built with public-private been paying dividend unfailingly from partnership .Planned and constructed from 2003-04 and its dividend pay-out has scratch, the airport has been acclaimed for touched 132% in 2013-14. In the same setting a novel concept in infrastructure financial year, it posted a record profit development. The astonishing public (after tax) of Rs.124.42 crores which was participation, relentless support from up by 11.68 % than that of last year. CIAL NRIs and an effective leadership have made has now spread out a decade-long, multi- CIAL, the company that built and operates crore management programme through the airport, an international brand. The which it targets to achieve revenue of Rs company showcases a sustainable business 3,000 crores by 2023. As part of CIAL’s model which always adheres to people, effort to provide world-class service to community and culture. CIAL, the brand passengers in a cost effective manner, it has name becomes a generic noun now; which now embarked on an ambitious project of has been connoted and referred as a model building a new international terminal at a for inclusive growth and innovative cost of Rs 1000 crores; which is expected infrastructure development. to be completed by March 2016. The Ever since commercial operations airport is all set to become power neutral started on 10th June 1999, CIAL has by the end of 2015 through the 12 MWp grown rapidly, becoming the 4th largest solar power plant; the work of which is International Airport in India, in terms of progressing. It is envisaged that the project international passenger traffic in just four would make the airport a first in the world years. It handled 5.4million passengers in to be fully powered by solar energy.

Airport premises - 2014 The busy apron-2014 | 86 | 87 CIAL Golf Club 106 CIAL CIAL Trade Fair Centre 108 Cochin Duty Free 110 TODAY CIAL Cargo 112 Aviation Services 114 THE LENS Green Symphony 116 New International Terminal 124 FILES Brand Identity 126

| 88 | 89 1

2 3 Add-on Services

1. Domestic departure 2. Cafeteria - international departure 3, 4. International departure shops 4 5 5. Facilities at the domestic departure lounge International departure lounge-first floor | 90 | 91 2

1. Roof top garden - International departure 2. Viewers gallery 1 Domestic departure lounge 3 3. International arrival

| 92 | 93 Aero - Non - Aero Revenue Comparison Passenger Traffic Growth : 2001 - 2014

400

350 60 300

250 53.85 261 200 220 194 48.99 50 150 166 47.17 144 113 100 83 43.45 64 50 87 87 68 80 82 48 55 60 39.46 40 0 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14

Aero Revenue Non-Aero Revenue Figures in Crores 33.39 33.63 32.71 1 30 29.34 Aircraft Movement 2001 - 2014 25.61 25.85 50000 47216 23.60 22.32 45000 21.32 21.14 41172 41544 41080 41114 41538 20.10 40000 39168 20 18.87 17.71 19.85 19.65 35000 15.96 15.68 30673 14.29 17.14 13.33 30000 11.55 47216 The Traffic 25000 23476 10.11 13.53 22833 22615 22796 10.06 20975 22125 20286 10 8.33 8.61 11.32 23134 20000 17957 21252 16158 16501 19047 5.91 18068 18465 18318 15000 4.19 7.32 13094 16335 11478 11444 5.9 10286 14172 4.2 4.72 10000 8591 4.14 7170 6814 9531 7567 7671 0 5000 6280 4308 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 0 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 Domestic International Total Figures in Lakhs Domestic International Total

2 3 1,2,3. International passengers

| 94 | 95 The Connectivity

1 1. The busy airport 2. Inside ATC Tower 3. ATC Tower

2 3 Aircrafts waiting for boarding-view from ATC Tower

| 96 | 97 1

The Terminal

1. Inside international terminal building Domestic departure lounge 2 2. Inside domestic terminal building

| 98 | 99 1

2 3 Airport Rescue & Fire Fighting

High end fire tenders ready for action 4 1,2,3. Demonstrations of fire tenders | 4. The ARFF team

| 100 | 101 1 2 Bomb Detection & Dog Squad Disposal Equipments

1. The Remote mobile investigator 2. Threat containment vessel 3. V.J. Kurian inspecting the performance of RMI 3

| 102 | 103 Plane Spotting

| 104 | 105 2

3 4 CIAL Golf Club

1. CIAL golf club 1 5 6 2,3,4,5,6. Shots of golf course

| 106 | 107 CIAL 2 Trade Fair & Exhibition Centre

1. CIAL trade fair & convention center 1 3 2 & 3. Inside convention centre

| 108 | 109 2

Cochin Duty Free

3 4 1. Cochin Duty Free-arrival area | 2. Cochin duty free departure 1 3,4. Inside cochin duty free- Arrival area

| 110 | 111 CIAL Cargo

| 112 | 113 2

Cochin International Aviation Services Ltd

1. Cochin International aviation services ltd. 2. Hangar 1 3 3. Arial view of CIASL

| 114 | 115 Green Symphony

Panels are being laid out near cargo complex for the 12 MWp Solar PV plant which would make the airport the first in the world fully powered by Solar Energy

| 116 | 117 2

3 1. Solar panels over the top CIASL building 2. Solar panels deployed in the field 1 3. Solar panels over the top of CIASL academy

| 118 | 119 CIAL Board of Directors - 2014

Oommen Chandy, V.J. Kurian IAS, chairman managing director

K.M. Mani, Minister P.K. Kunhalikkutty, Minister K. Babu, Minister Bharath Bhushan IAS, Chief Secretary

M.A. Yusaffali C.V. Jacob E.M. Babu N.V. George Mohammad Ali

Five kilometre road from Athani junction to Airport, developed and maintained by CIAL

| 120 | 121 CIAL team-2014 The airport campus-view from northern side | 122 | 123 New International Terminal

1. Lay out of new International terminal 1 2 2. V.J. Kurian, MD, CIAL briefs Chief Minister, Ommen Chandy about the features new International Terminal

| 124 | 125 Towards a New Brand Identity

CIAL launched New logo and brand identity on 17th November 2014. The Public Relations and Corporate communication department spearheaded the initiative to devise and execute a new brand image for the company. CIAL’s brand identity is derived from the palm leaf – the ola – and its utilization as decoration through the thoranam. The coconut palm is endemic to Kerala and is a symbol of celebration and of prosperity, progress and renewal. The palm leaf’s use as decorations is far and wide in the state. The colours and textures reflect the ola in its natural state. The logo depicts it in a designed manner - in a take-off mode representing the field of aviation as well as the ascendance of the community around CIAL. Nature, Culture and Community being the three tenets around which CIAL is planning to represent itself, the brand identity has been designed to reflect the same. It depicts the rootedness of the organization in society (community), the celebratory and welcoming nature of its culture (culture) and the green-ness of its aspirations (nature). The activities of the organization also indicate this, including the generation of its own renewable energy and its aim to become power neutral .

K. Babu, Minister handing over the 3D logo to V.J. Kurian during the new branding launching function. A.C.K. Nair and C.V.Jacob are also seen -17th November 2014 The new logo of cochin International airport | 126 | 127 Colour Palette The Trailblazing Brand

| 128 | 129 | 130 | 131 | 132