PM Modi Inaugurates Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport in Bhogapuram

Visakhapatnam, Aug 2026 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated the Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport at Bhogapuram in Andhra Pradesh’s Vizianagaram district, marking a major milestone in the state’s aviation infrastructure and regional connectivity.

After landing at the newly constructed Greenfield airport, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated the passenger terminal building and took part in a walkthrough of the facility along with Andhra Pradesh Governor S. Abdul Nazeer, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan and Civil Aviation Minister K. Ram Mohan Naidu.

Senior officials and representatives of the GMR Group briefed the Prime Minister on the airport’s infrastructure, facilities and technological features. The terminal has been designed to reflect the rich cultural heritage of Andhra Pradesh, with traditional artwork, handicrafts and motifs incorporated into its architecture and interiors.

During his visit, Modi took a close look at the large-scale Etikoppaka artwork displayed at the airport’s welcome gate, showcasing one of Andhra Pradesh’s renowned traditional art forms.

The inauguration was accompanied by a vibrant cultural welcome. As the Prime Minister proceeded from the airport towards the public meeting venue in a special vehicle along with the Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister and other dignitaries, thousands of tribal women performed the traditional Dhimsa dance.

According to officials, the participation of around 13,500 tribal women in the performance created a Guinness World Record. Modi was seen applauding the colourful presentation as the dancers showcased the traditional culture of the tribal communities of Andhra Pradesh.

At the public meeting, the Prime Minister is scheduled to inaugurate, dedicate to the nation and lay the foundation stones for multiple development projects worth more than Rs 17,900 crore in Bhogapuram. He will also address the gathering on the occasion.

Developed under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model at an investment of more than Rs 5,640 crore, the Greenfield airport has been designed to handle approximately six million passengers annually. The facility is expected to significantly strengthen air connectivity in the region and provide a major boost to tourism, trade, investment and employment opportunities across Andhra Pradesh.

The passenger terminal has been designed to offer travellers a modern, seamless and efficient experience. The airport incorporates advanced infrastructure and technology aimed at improving operational efficiency while meeting the state’s future aviation requirements.

Among the key technological features are Artificial Intelligence (AI), Building Information Modelling (BIM), Airside 4.0 technologies, an Airport Predictive Operations Centre (APOC), biometric passenger processing and automated baggage handling systems.

Intelligent operational monitoring solutions have also been integrated into the airport’s systems. These technologies are expected to improve passenger convenience and safety, optimise the use of airport resources and enable more efficient management of airport operations.

The new airport is expected to play a crucial role in transforming the region’s connectivity and supporting Andhra Pradesh’s broader economic and tourism ambitions. Its strategic location near Visakhapatnam is also expected to strengthen access to the state’s northern districts and provide an important gateway for domestic and international travellers.