Tezzbuzz Desk – Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport in Bhogapuram, Vizianagaram district, on Saturday, August 1st, marking a significant milestone for Andhra Pradesh. The Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone for various development projects worth thousands of crores of rupees. Several leaders, including Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, were present at the event.
After inaugurating the airport, Prime Minister Modi addressed a public gathering. He linked the airport to Andhra Pradesh’s development and a brighter future for its youth, calling it a “launch pad” for the state.
‘Launch pad for a better future for the youth of Andhra’
PM Modi began his address with the slogan “Bharat Mata ki Jai.” He stated that this day is a very important day for Andhra Pradesh. The Prime Minister said that the new airport will not only provide convenience and connectivity for passengers, but will also be a launchpad for a brighter future for the youth of Andhra Pradesh.
PM Modi said that projects related to aviation, clean energy, semiconductors, and connectivity will accelerate the state’s development in the future. He praised the youth of Andhra Pradesh, saying that their talents have been recognized worldwide.
PM Modi also spoke on the naming of the airport
Addressing the public gathering, the Prime Minister also mentioned the long-standing tradition of naming airports in the country. He said that at one time, airports built in the country were often named after people belonging to the same family, but his government has changed this tradition.
Citing examples of Ayodhya and other places, including Punjab, he said the NDA government is working to honor the nation’s great men and local heroes. Bhogapuram Airport is named after freedom fighter Alluri Sitarama Raju.
The airport is equipped with modern technology
This greenfield international airport in Bhogapuram is considered crucial for Andhra Pradesh’s connectivity. The airport was developed under the PPP model and is estimated to cost approximately ₹5,640 crore.
The airport is equipped with modern technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Building Information Modelling (BIM), Airside 4.0 technology, Airport Predictive Operations Centre (APOC), biometric passenger processing and automated baggage handling.
These technologies aim to improve passenger experience while making airport operations safer and more efficient.
Initial capacity of 6 million passengers per annum
Bhogapuram International Airport has been developed with a capacity to handle approximately 6 million passengers annually in the first phase. Plans are also underway to expand it to meet future passenger growth.
Under the master plan, the target has been set to increase the capacity of this airport to four crore passengers annually in the coming time.
Employment and industrial development will gain momentum
Bhogapuram International Airport is being envisioned not just as a transportation project but also as a key economic development hub for the region. It is expected to boost industrial investment, tourism, exports, employment, and skill development.
Bhogapuram International Airport is the seventh airport in Andhra Pradesh. Flight operations are expected to begin from August 17th. The opening of the new airport is expected to further strengthen the air connectivity of Vizianagaram and surrounding areas with the rest of the country and the world.