PM Modi to inaugurate Bhogapuram international airport on Aug 1
Visakhapatnam, July 20 (TNT): Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport at Bhogapuram on August 1, marking the commissioning of Andhra Pradesh’s newest international airport and a major boost to aviation infrastructure in North Coastal Andhra.
Developed by GMR Visakhapatnam International Airport Limited (GVIAL), a subsidiary of GMR Airports Limited, the greenfield airport has been built with an initial capacity to handle six million passengers annually, with provision for expansion to over 40 million passengers in subsequent phases.
The airport features a 3,800-metre Code 4E runway, an integrated passenger terminal, dedicated cargo facilities and modern airside infrastructure capable of handling both domestic and international operations.
According to GMR Airports Limited, the airport has secured all major statutory and regulatory approvals required for commercial operations, including the Aerodrome Licence from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), security clearance from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), notification as an Immigration Check Post (ICP), Customs notification under the Customs Act and Consent to Operate from the Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board.
Strategically located at Bhogapuram, the airport is expected to serve Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram, Srikakulam and adjoining regions of southern Odisha and Chhattisgarh, while strengthening connectivity, tourism, trade, logistics and industrial growth in the Visakhapatnam Economic Region.
The Central and State governments have also accelerated road infrastructure projects to improve connectivity to the airport, including approach roads, highway links and public transport facilities.
The airport has been equipped with dedicated cargo infrastructure and has been designed to support sectors such as information technology, pharmaceuticals, electronics, seafood exports and manufacturing.
It also incorporates sustainability features, including renewable energy systems, rainwater harvesting and energy-efficient infrastructure.
GMR Airports Limited said the airport is fully prepared for the commencement of scheduled commercial operations immediately after its inauguration, with government agencies and regulatory authorities coordinating the final operational arrangements.
TNT KM
