In a significant move aimed at enhancing air travel infrastructure and promoting sustainable development, Shri Jyotiraditya M Scindia, Minister for Civil Aviation and Steel, laid the foundation stone for the new terminal building at Rajahmundry Airport today.
The groundbreaking ceremony marked the commencement of a project that seeks to achieve a 5-star GRIHA rating by seamlessly integrating local art, culture, and sustainable design principles. The terminal’s key features include a focus on thermal insulation, energy efficiency, vibrant LED lighting, rainwater harvesting, sewage treatment for recycled water, and a design optimized for natural light.
Addressing the attendees, Shri Scindia emphasized the government’s commitment to transformative changes under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. The new terminal, spanning an impressive 17,029 sqm, is set to be 400 times the size of the existing structure, with a total area of 21,094 sqm post-expansion. This substantial increase will enable the facility to serve 2100 passengers, a tenfold increase in capacity.
Assuring continued support for the region, Shri Scindia stated that if demand warrants, the union government is prepared to establish a new cargo terminal following the completion of the passenger terminal.
Highlighting the progress in civil aviation in Andhra Pradesh, Shri Scindia noted the increase in airports from four to six since 2014, accompanied by a rise in air traffic movements from 388 to 1162.
Furthermore, Shri Scindia shared updates on the development of two new Greenfield airports in Bhogapuram and Nellore, as well as the imminent completion of the Prakasam water barrage project. Anticipating a substantial growth in the Indian aviation sector, he projected the establishment of 200+ airports and the transportation of over 40 crore passengers by 2030.
Currently connected to Hyderabad, Chennai, and Bengaluru, Rajahmundry Airport handles 126 flight movements per week. The expansion, costing Rs.350 Crore, aims to meet the rising demand, facilitating 2100 passengers during peak hours and serving 30 lakh passengers annually.
The upgraded terminal will feature 28 check-in counters, four arrival conveyor belts, eight X-Bis machines, three aerobridges, and a range of food and retail outlets. Additionally, it will cater to the needs of Divyangjans, aligning with Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan norms, and provide parking for approximately 600 cars.
The event was attended by Shri Gudivada Amarnath, Minister for Industries, Infrastructure, Investment & Commerce, IT, Handlooms & Textiles Government of Andhra Pradesh, Shri Margani Bharat Ram, MP (Lok Sabha), Shri Jakkampudi Raja MLA (AP), Shri Vumlunmang Vualnam, Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation, and Shri Sanijv Kumar, Chairman, AAI. The newly upgraded terminal is poised to play a pivotal role in the comprehensive development of the state, positioning Rajahmundry as a prominent destination for both tourism and commerce.
