New Delhi: Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport has recently inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Bhogapuram, Vizianagaram district in Andhra Pradesh, on Saturday, is being renamed after Andhra Pradesh-born great guerrilla leader Alluri Sitarama Raju. The new airport, which cost almost ₹5,000 crore, will enhance air connectivity and boost the economic development of North Andhra.
The airport is one of the largest infrastructure projects in the state and is expected to be a significant improvement in terms of transport facilities in the region. It is designed to cater to the needs of the population of North Andhra, including Visakhapatnam and adjoining areas. The new airport will also shorten travel time, boost investments and generate new employment opportunities.
In the event of the inauguration ceremony, PM Modi spoke of the significance of improving infrastructure in India. He also noted that the modern airports facilitate the ease of travel, and improve trade, tourism and connectivity to make businesses grow. The airport has been named after freedom fighter Alluri Sitarama Raju for his contribution in freedom movement of India.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, and Union Minister for Civil Aviation Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu were among the dignitaries present at the event. They said the airport is a landmark project that will take a step towards building North Andhra as an important business and industrial hub.
It has been developed to accommodate both domestic as well as international flights and provides modern facilities for the passengers. It can accommodate approximately 6 million passengers annually, and will be expanded in the future in accordance with the increase in air traffic. It also features cargo facilities which are expected to facilitate trade outflows from the area, particularly from agro-industrial complexes.
The new airport is expected to drive tourism growth, create new industries and enhance business opportunities in North Andhra. The positive impact of improved connectivity is also likely to encourage investments in various industries, including logistics, hotels, information technology and data centers. The project is expected to generate thousands of jobs, both directly and indirectly, which will positively impact the local communities in Andhra.
The government of Andhra Pradesh has recently made a major strides in enhancing its aviation facilities with the debut of Bhogapuram International Airport. The project will also contribute significantly to the State’s economic development over the long term and improve the journey times and experience for millions of travelers.
