Bhogapuram (Vizianagaram) / Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport at Bhogapuram in Andhra Pradesh on Saturday, marking a major milestone in the state’s aviation infrastructure and economic development. Constructed at an estimated cost of ₹4,750 crore, the airport is the first major international airport project to be developed in the reorganized state of Andhra Pradesh following its bifurcation in 2014.
The state-of-the-art airport is expected to transform North Andhra Pradesh into a major hub for tourism, trade, industry, and international connectivity, while generating significant employment opportunities and boosting regional economic growth.
Prime Minister Received by State Leadership
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at the airport at approximately 10:45 a.m. aboard a special aircraft from New Delhi.
He was welcomed by Andhra Pradesh Governor S. Abdul Nazeer and Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, along with senior ministers, public representatives, and government officials.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by thousands of people, with the state government making elaborate arrangements for the event.
A Landmark Airport for New Andhra Pradesh
The Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport is regarded as one of the most significant infrastructure projects undertaken in Andhra Pradesh after the state’s bifurcation.
Developed with international standards, modern aviation technology, and world-class passenger facilities, the airport is expected to strengthen domestic and international air connectivity while attracting investments into the region.
The coalition government accelerated the completion of the project after assuming office, aiming to position North Andhra Pradesh as an emerging economic and logistics hub.
World-Class Infrastructure
The airport has been equipped with advanced infrastructure designed to accommodate future passenger and cargo growth.
Dual Runways
The airport features two runways, each measuring 3.8 kilometers in length and 45 meters in width, capable of handling large commercial aircraft, including Airbus and Boeing wide-body jets.
Modern Passenger Terminal
A 79,000-square-meter, two-level passenger terminal has been constructed with:
- 40 check-in counters
- 10 immigration counters
- Five domestic baggage belts
- Two international baggage belts
- Self check-in kiosks
- Automated baggage handling facilities
- Spacious waiting areas
- Abundant natural lighting
- Passenger-friendly centralized design
The airport is planned to handle:
- 6 million passengers annually in Phase I
- 12 million passengers in Phase II
- 18 million passengers in Phase III
Advanced Air Traffic Control
A 55-meter-high Air Traffic Control (ATC) Tower, spread across 11,000 square meters, offers 360-degree visibility and is equipped with comprehensive Aerodrome Flight Information Services, ensuring safe and efficient aircraft operations.
Cargo and Maintenance Facilities
To support industrial and export growth, the airport includes a 5,000-square-meter Cargo Terminal and Logistics Zone with an annual cargo handling capacity of 25,000 tonnes.
The facility is expected to boost exports of:
- Pharmaceutical products
- Aquaculture products
- Marine products
- Other industrial goods from Andhra Pradesh
Additionally, a 25-acre Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility has been developed, featuring:
- Aircraft hangars
- Aprons
- Aircraft washing bays
- Engine run-up areas
- Airside and landside operational infrastructure
Designed for Sustainability and Regional Identity
Situated near the coastline, the airport’s architecture has been inspired by the shape of a flying fish, reflecting the region’s maritime heritage.
The terminal incorporates several cultural elements unique to Andhra Pradesh, including:
- Traditional Muggu (Rangoli) patterns
- Designs inspired by the Nadaswaram musical instrument
- A large Etikoppaka wooden toy installation at the entrance
- Artistic representations of Tholu Bommalata (Leather Puppetry)
- Bobbili Veena
- Banganapalli Mangoes
- Traditional Thappeta Gullu and Dhimsa dance forms
The interiors also showcase iconic landmarks and temples, including:
- Vizianagaram Fort
- Arasavalli Sun Temple
- Sri Mukhalingam Temple
- Srikurmam Temple
- Simhachalam Temple
- Kanaka Mahalakshmi Temple
Integrated Aviation Ecosystem
The airport has been planned as part of a broader integrated aviation ecosystem, including:
- GMR Aviation University
- GMR Aerocity
- Commercial business zones
- Hotels
- Entertainment and hospitality facilities
The project is expected to generate:
- 15,000 direct jobs
- Approximately 5.85 lakh indirect employment opportunities
These developments are expected to significantly enhance skill development, investment, and economic activity across North Andhra Pradesh.
Grand Cultural Welcome
To celebrate the inauguration and showcase Andhra Pradesh’s rich tribal heritage, organizers arranged a spectacular Dhimsa tribal dance performance.
A total of approximately 13,750 tribal women, students, and members of self-help groups from Alluri Sitarama Raju, Parvathipuram Manyam, and Polavaram districts participated in the cultural event.
Prime Minister Modi witnessed the performance while traveling in an open vehicle from the airport terminal to the public meeting venue.
Massive Security and Public Arrangements
The state government made extensive preparations for the inaugural event, including:
- Seating arrangements for nearly 3 lakh people
- Multiple viewing galleries
- Large LED display screens across the venue
- Installation of 3,000 CCTV cameras
- Monitoring through an Integrated Command and Control Centre
These arrangements ensured effective crowd management and security during the high-profile event.
Additional Development Projects
Besides inaugurating the airport, Prime Minister Modi is also expected to inaugurate and lay the foundation stones for several development projects worth approximately ₹18,000 crore, covering sectors such as:
- Petroleum
- Road Transport
- Infrastructure
- Other key government departments
These projects are expected to further accelerate economic development across Andhra Pradesh.
Key Highlights
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the ₹4,750 crore Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport at Bhogapuram.
- The airport is the first major international airport developed in Andhra Pradesh after the state’s bifurcation.
- Features two 3.8-km runways capable of handling large commercial aircraft.
- Includes a 79,000-square-meter passenger terminal with world-class facilities.
- Equipped with a 55-meter Air Traffic Control Tower offering 360-degree visibility.
- Houses a 25,000-tonne cargo terminal and a 25-acre MRO facility.
- Designed with architectural elements reflecting Andhra Pradesh’s culture and heritage.
- Expected to generate 15,000 direct and 5.85 lakh indirect employment opportunities.
- Forms part of an integrated ecosystem featuring GMR Aviation University and GMR Aerocity.
- Prime Minister Modi is also expected to launch and lay foundation stones for projects worth ₹18,000 crore.
The inauguration of the Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport marks a transformative moment in Andhra Pradesh’s infrastructure journey. By enhancing global connectivity, promoting trade and tourism, and creating large-scale employment opportunities, the airport is set to become a key driver of economic growth and a landmark symbol of the state’s development aspirations.
