IGI Becomes India’s First Water-Positive Airport

Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) has earned the title of India’s first water-positive airport among facilities handling more than 40 million passengers annually. This certification marks a milestone in sustainable airport operations and environmental stewardship.

What Water-Positive Status Means

Being water-positive means the facility replenishes more freshwater than it consumes. IGI achieved this goal by expanding rainwater harvesting, investing in storage systems and adopting advanced recycling mechanisms. The recognition was formally conferred at the Water Innovation Summit 2025 under the NITI Aayog–CII water neutrality framework.

Infrastructure Driving Water Replenishment

IGI Airport’s large-scale water infrastructure includes:

• 625 rainwater harvesting structures
• Two underground reservoirs with a combined 9-million-litre capacity
• A 16.6 million-litre-per-day (MLD) zero-liquid-discharge sewage treatment plant

These initiatives ensure rainwater capture, groundwater recharge and reuse of every drop of wastewater.

Efficient Reuse and Smart Water Systems

Recycled water supports HVAC operations, landscape irrigation and toilet flushing, reducing the need for external supplies. The airport uses automated sprinklers, drip irrigation and monitoring systems to optimise usage and minimise wastage. A separate treatment facility ensures safe potable water for passenger needs.

Exam-Oriented Highlights

• First water-positive airport in India handling over 40 million passengers
• 625 rainwater harvesting units and 9-million-litre reservoir capacity
• 16.6 MLD zero-liquid-discharge STP for complete wastewater recycling
• Recognition under NITI Aayog–CII water neutrality standards

Strengthening Sustainability and Climate Resilience

Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) emphasises that becoming water-positive boosts climate readiness while supporting long-term goals of converting IGI into a net-zero airport. This achievement reflects a growing shift toward responsible resource management in aviation, positioning IGI as a national model for sustainable airport development and infrastructure planning.