Delhi: GMR Aero-led Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) has announced that Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) is now the first airport in India with a capacity of over 40 million passengers per annum to achieve water-positive status – marking a significant milestone in sustainable water management in the global aviation sector.
IGIA, which has long been recognised for its environmental and sustainability initiatives, has transformed from a groundwater-stressed airport into a facility that replenishes more water than it consumes.
This accomplishment was officially acknowledged at the Water Innovation Summit 2025 in New Delhi, where DIAL received recognition for achieving Scope I Water Neutrality under the NITI Aayog–CII Water Neutrality Framework. The honour reinforces IGIA’s position as a global leader in climate-resilient and sustainable airport infrastructure, GMR said in a press release.
Commenting on the achievement, Videh Kumar Jaipuriar, CEO–DIAL, said: “At DIAL, sustainability is not an obligation – it’s our driving force. Becoming water-positive reflects our deep commitment to responsible resource use, environmental stewardship, and the future of aviation infrastructure. More importantly, this achievement is a significant step towards our long-term vision of strengthening IGIA’s position as a net zero airport. Water positivity not only reduces our dependence on natural resources but also enhances our resilience and climate readiness. IGIA is not just India’s busiest airport; it is one of the greenest airports in the country.”
Key water management and sustainability highlights:
Rainwater Harvesting & Storage: The airport has installed more than 625 rainwater-harvesting systems. Additionally, two newly built underground reservoirs with a total capacity of 9 million litres significantly enhance water collection and storage.
Zero-Liquid Discharge & Wastewater Recycling: A 16.6 Million Litres per Day Zero-Liquid Discharge Sewage Treatment Plant ensures that all wastewater is treated and reused. The recycled water supports HVAC operations, landscaping irrigation, toilet flushing, and other non-potable uses.
This water-positive achievement adds to DIAL’s sustainability record. IGIA is already the first airport in Asia in its category to receive Level 5 Carbon Accreditation under the Airports Council International Airport Carbon Accreditation programme.
