Patna: Tiles detached from a wall in the arrivals area of the new terminal at Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport on Tuesday, causing panic among passengers and raising concerns about construction quality.
The incident occurred near pillar number five, where a section of wall tiles came loose and fell. Eyewitnesses said the tiles struck steel safety rods before hitting the ground, producing a loud crash that startled passengers and staff nearby.
Despite the disruption, no injuries were reported. Airport officials said passenger movement was ongoing at the time, but no one was directly hit by the falling debris. The steel rods installed as a protective measure sustained damage.
Security and airport management personnel quickly reached the site and cordoned off the affected area to prevent further risk. The cause of the incident has not been officially confirmed, though initial indications point to possible flaws in construction or installation.
Passengers at the scene questioned the safety standards of the recently built terminal, describing the incident as a serious concern in a new facility.
Arjit Shashwat, who was at the airport to receive his father, former Union minister Ashwini Choubey, said he had been standing close to the spot shortly before the tiles fell. He moved away moments earlier, narrowly avoiding the incident. Shashwat called for a thorough inquiry and a comprehensive inspection of the terminal.
Airport director C P Dwivedi confirmed the incident, stating that maintenance work had been under way in the area and warning signage was already in place. He said the section has now been sealed off and assured that passenger safety remains the top priority.
Authorities said a detailed investigation will be carried out and corrective measures taken to prevent similar incidents.
