PM Modi Inaugurates ₹5,000 Crore Bhogapuram Airport, Launches Projects Worth ₹17,900 Crore

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport at Bhogapuram in Andhra Pradesh on Saturday, marking a significant milestone in the state's infrastructure development. Built at a cost of nearly ₹5,000 crore, the new international airport is expected to boost connectivity, attract investments, strengthen tourism, and accelerate economic growth across North Andhra.

Alongside the airport inauguration, the Prime Minister also launched and laid the foundation stone for multiple development projects worth more than ₹17,900 crore, covering infrastructure, transportation, and regional development initiatives.

Bhogapuram Airport Opens a New Chapter for Andhra Pradesh

The newly inaugurated Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport is located in Bhogapuram in Andhra Pradesh's Vizianagaram district.

The state government considers the airport one of its most ambitious infrastructure projects, aiming to improve international and domestic connectivity while supporting trade, tourism, and industrial expansion across the northern coastal region.

With modern facilities and improved accessibility, the airport is expected to become a major gateway for both business and leisure travellers.

₹5,000 Crore Project Expected to Boost Regional Economy

Constructed with an investment of nearly ₹5,000 crore, the airport is expected to become a major driver of economic activity.

Officials believe the project will:

• Improve international connectivity.
• Attract domestic and foreign investments.
• Support industrial development.
• Increase tourism opportunities.
• Create employment across multiple sectors.
• Strengthen logistics and cargo movement.

The airport is also expected to benefit nearby cities and industrial corridors by improving transportation infrastructure.

Development Projects Worth Over ₹17,900 Crore Launched

During his visit, Prime Minister Modi also inaugurated, dedicated, and laid the foundation stone for several development projects collectively valued at more than ₹17,900 crore.

These projects span multiple sectors, including infrastructure, connectivity, public services, and regional development, and are intended to strengthen Andhra Pradesh's long-term economic growth.

The initiatives form part of the Centre's broader effort to improve infrastructure across the country.

Traditional Welcome Highlights Andhra Pradesh's Culture

The Prime Minister received a grand ceremonial welcome upon his arrival.

Around 13,500 tribal women performed the traditional Dhimsa dance, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Andhra Pradesh.

The colourful performance highlighted the state's tribal traditions and added a cultural dimension to the inauguration ceremony.

Airport Showcases Local Art and Heritage

The newly inaugurated airport also reflects Andhra Pradesh's artistic and cultural identity.

Visitors were introduced to displays featuring Etikoppaka handicrafts, one of the state's most famous traditional art forms.

Decorative motifs representing Andhra Pradesh's geography and heritage were also incorporated throughout the airport premises, giving passengers a glimpse of the state's rich cultural legacy.

State Leadership Joins Prime Minister

Prime Minister Modi was welcomed by several senior leaders during the inauguration ceremony.

Among those present were:

• Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu
• Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan
• Union Civil Aviation Minister K. Ram Mohan Naidu

The leaders accompanied the Prime Minister during various events held as part of the inauguration programme.

Airport Expected to Improve Tourism and Investment

The Bhogapuram International Airport is expected to significantly improve access to several tourist destinations along Andhra Pradesh's coastline.

Better air connectivity is likely to encourage:

• Tourism growth.
• Hotel and hospitality investments.
• Industrial expansion.
• Export-oriented businesses.
• Real estate development.
• Regional employment opportunities.

Improved connectivity is also expected to strengthen Andhra Pradesh's position as an emerging investment destination.

Part of India's Infrastructure Expansion

The inauguration aligns with the Central Government's ongoing focus on expanding airports and strengthening transportation infrastructure across India.

Over the past few years, several new airports, expressways, railway projects, and logistics corridors have been launched to improve connectivity between cities and promote balanced regional development.

The Bhogapuram airport is expected to play an important role in this nationwide infrastructure push.

Final Thoughts

The inauguration of the ₹5,000 crore Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport marks a significant milestone in Andhra Pradesh's development journey. Combined with infrastructure projects worth over ₹17,900 crore, the visit highlights a major investment in improving connectivity, boosting tourism, supporting industries, and creating employment opportunities across North Andhra. As the airport begins operations, it is expected to become a key transportation hub that strengthens the region's economic potential while showcasing Andhra Pradesh's rich cultural heritage to travellers from India and around the world.