On Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the new name for Adampur Airport in Jalandhar, Punjab, as 'Sri Guru Ravidas Maharaj Ji Airport, Adampur'. Simultaneously, he virtually inaugurated the new terminal building at Ludhiana's Halwara Airport.
After the budget presentation, PM Modi arrived at Adampur Airport near Delhi around 3:45 PM. During his visit, he also toured Dera Sachkhand Ballan on the occasion of Guru Ravidas's 649th birth anniversary.
Strengthening Punjab's Air Connectivity
According to news agency reports, the new civil terminal at Halwara Airport is seen as a significant step toward strengthening air connectivity in Punjab. This terminal is a joint project by the Punjab government and the Airports Authority of India, with an estimated cost of approximately 54.67 crores INR.
Developed at the Indian Air Force base, Halwara Airport's new terminal is expected to boost industrial and economic activities in the region. The terminal spans around 2,000 square meters and is capable of accommodating approximately 300 passengers during peak hours. It also has the capability to serve nearly 200,000 passengers annually.
Direct Benefits to Ludhiana with Large Aircraft Landings
The inauguration event was attended by notable figures, including Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, and Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu.
The new terminal incorporates environmentally friendly technologies, such as LED lighting, a rainwater harvesting system, a sewage treatment plant, and water recycling.
According to officials, the runway at Halwara Airport is capable of handling larger aircraft, such as the A320. Previously, Ludhiana Airport's runway capacity was limited, requiring passengers to take flights from Delhi, Chandigarh, or Amritsar. This new facility is expected to greatly benefit the region's industries, tourism, healthcare services, and education sector.
