The recent transformation of Ayodhya Airport into the Maharishi Valmiki International Airport Ayodhyadham marks a significant milestone in India’s aviation industry. Inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on December 30, this development is set to enhance the city’s capacity to manage an increasing number of visitors, especially to the birthplace of Lord Ram.
The airport’s operations, commencing from January 6, 2024, will initially include flights to key Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Bangalore, and Hyderabad, with private carrier IndiGo operating the inaugural flight. This expanded connectivity is a crucial step in promoting Ayodhya’s cultural and religious significance on a global stage.
Ayodhya Airport, now an international hub, is the fifth airport in Uttar Pradesh, a state renowned for its dense population. The project, part of the Centre’s Regional Connectivity Scheme, was developed at an estimated cost of Rs 1,450 crore. With this, Uttar Pradesh becomes the only Indian state with five international airports.
Strategically located just 8 km from the Ram Temple and 10 km from the city center, the airport is well-positioned to serve visitors and pilgrims. The construction is executed in three phases over an area of 821 acres. The first phase includes a 65,000-square-feet terminal and a 2200-metre runway, capable of accommodating large aircraft. The second phase will expand the terminal and extend the runway to 3700 metres, allowing direct international flights.
Bangalore-based Vishal Infrastructure leads the construction, bringing their experience in building large-scale infrastructure projects. The airport’s design, inspired by the Nagara style of architecture, reflects the spirit of the Ramayana, aiming to transport visitors back to the era of Ayodhya’s glory.
The new terminal is designed to handle 300 passengers during peak hours and an annual capacity of 6 lakh passengers. The airport is expected to be fully operational by 2025, with state-of-the-art amenities including advanced baggage handling, passenger boarding bridges, and a range of passenger facilities.
Beyond enhancing travel convenience, the Ayodhya Airport is poised to have a significant impact on employment and industry. The project is expected to stimulate economic growth, generating direct and indirect employment opportunities and boosting tourism, trade, and commerce in the region. This development is also influencing the real estate market, with property rates in Ayodhya witnessing a substantial increase in anticipation of the airport’s opening and the new Ram Temple, expected to draw millions of travelers and pilgrims in the coming years.
FAQs:
- What is the significance of Maharishi Valmiki International Airport?
- The Maharishi Valmiki International Airport represents a major upgrade for Ayodhya’s connectivity, enhancing tourism and economic growth in the region.
- When did Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurate the airport?
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the airport on December 30.
- What cities will the Ayodhya Airport connect to initially?
- Initially, the airport will connect Ayodhya to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Bangalore, and Hyderabad.
- What is the estimated cost of the Ayodhya Airport project?
- The first phase of the Ayodhya Airport has been developed at an estimated cost of Rs 1,450 crore.
- How will the Ayodhya Airport impact the local economy?
- The airport is expected to significantly boost the job market, promote tourism, trade, and commerce, and spur growth in the real estate sector in and around Ayodhya.
Conclusion:
The inauguration of Maharishi Valmiki International Airport Ayodhyadham symbolizes a significant stride in India’s aviation and tourism sectors. Its strategic location, advanced facilities, and anticipated economic impact highlight the government’s commitment to enhancing connectivity and fostering regional development. As the airport gears up for operation, it stands as a beacon of progress, blending modernity with the rich cultural heritage of Ayodhya.