Construction of Pokhara Aviation Fuel Station (AFS) – Pokhara International Airport, Nepal

Project Description

The Construction of Pokhara Aviation Fuel Station (AFS) is a landmark infrastructure development project designed to enhance Nepal’s aviation fuel supply and distribution system. Situated within the premises of the newly established Pokhara Regional International Airport in Gandaki Pradesh, the project is being executed under an EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) contract awarded by Nepal Oil Corporation Limited. The facility is being developed by Religare-Samanantar-BNH JV, with technical consultancy services provided by the Institute of Engineering (IOE), Pulchowk. This modern aviation fuel station is set to play a crucial role in supporting the operations of one of Nepal’s busiest and most strategically important airports.

The project site covers a total area of 9,215 square meters, providing sufficient space for state-of-the-art aviation fuel infrastructure. The facility includes three vertical ATF (Aviation Turbine Fuel) storage tanks, each with a capacity of 1,200 KL, bringing the total fuel storage capacity to 3,600 KL. To ensure maximum safety, the project also incorporates a dedicated fire water tank of 1,200 KL capacity, supported by firefighting pumps, foam sprinklers, and monitors. In terms of operational efficiency, the station is equipped with six product pumps, four filtration systems, and a fully automated control room for seamless monitoring. Additionally, two loading and unloading gantries are being installed to facilitate safe and efficient fuel transfer operations.

This integrated project brings together civil, structural, mechanical, and MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) works, ensuring that all systems meet international aviation safety, efficiency, and quality standards. From robust civil works like site preparation, roads, drainage, dyke walls, and administrative buildings, to advanced structural steel works for tanks, pipe racks, and platforms—the project scope covers every critical component of aviation fuel infrastructure.

The main objectives of the Pokhara AFS project include the design, supply, fabrication, erection, testing, and commissioning of aviation fuel storage and handling facilities with a strong focus on automation, firefighting, and safety systems. Deliverables include detailed engineering design and documentation, construction of ATF storage tanks and pipelines, installation of filtration and SCADA/PLC-based automation systems, as well as testing, commissioning, and final project handover with comprehensive training for the client’s personnel.

The scope of work extends across multiple domains. Civil works include grading, foundations, boundary walls, administrative and laboratory buildings, and internal roads. Structural works cover tank fabrication, gantry erection, pipe racks, and steel platforms. MEP works involve the installation of pumps, valves, filtration units, power distribution, earthing, and automation systems. Specialized systems such as fire protection networks (hydrants, sprinklers, foam systems) and safety and emergency shutdown mechanisms are being incorporated to safeguard both personnel and assets. To ensure sustainability and compliance, the project also emphasizes quality assurance, quality control (QA/QC), health, safety, and environmental (HSE) standards.

Upon completion, the Pokhara Aviation Fuel Station (AFS) will serve as a critical fueling hub for domestic and international air traffic in Nepal. By combining advanced engineering, safety-focused design, and modern automation, this project will significantly contribute to the reliability and efficiency of Nepal’s aviation sector.

Additional Information