Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new integrated terminal building at Guwahati's Lokapriya Gopinath Bardoloi International Airport on Saturday. The Prime Minister arrived in Guwahati for the afternoon ceremony, marking a significant milestone for infrastructure development in India's northeastern region.
A Major Infrastructural Leap for Assam
In a post on social media platform X on Friday, PM Modi previewed the event, calling the new terminal a major boost to Assam's infrastructure. He emphasized that the increased capacity would directly translate to improved 'Ease of Living' for citizens while providing a substantial push to both commerce and tourism in the state.
The scale of the project is transformative. Spanning nearly 1.4 lakh square metres, the new terminal is designed to handle an impressive up to 1.3 crore passengers every year. This enhanced capacity is expected to be a catalyst for economic growth and better global connectivity for Assam.
India's First Airport Inspired by Nature and Culture
This isn't just another airport terminal; it's a landmark project celebrating local ecology and heritage. The Guwahati airport is officially India's first nature-themed airport terminal, conceived around the beautiful concept of "Bamboo Orchids."
The architecture is a profound nod to Assam's rich biodiversity and cultural legacy. Key design elements include:
- Extensive use of approximately 140 metric tonnes of locally sourced bamboo from the Northeast.
- Visual themes inspired by the iconic Kaziranga National Park's green landscapes.
- Traditional Assamese japi (hat) motifs and the symbolic rhinoceros.
- A stunning array of 57 columns designed to resemble the local kopou (orchid) flower.
One of the most unique features is the "Sky Forest" installation. This immersive space houses close to one lakh indigenous plants, offering arriving passengers an immediate, refreshing experience of a forest-like environment.
Modern Amenities for a Smoother Travel Experience
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the terminal is packed with modern technology aimed at streamlining passenger journeys. The upgrades focus on security, efficiency, and contactless processes.
Passengers can look forward to several new facilities, including:
- Full-body scanners for quicker and more advanced security checks.
- Integration with the DigiYatra system for seamless, contactless travel from entry to boarding.
- Advanced automated systems for baggage handling.
- Fast-track immigration counters and AI-powered operations to manage airport logistics securely and efficiently.
The inauguration of this world-class terminal underscores the government's focus on enhancing regional connectivity. It positions Guwahati not just as a gateway to the Northeast, but as a modern, culturally-rooted hub ready to welcome the world and fuel Assam's progress for decades to come.
