Green Light for Bhubaneswar Airport's New Terminal

Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu announced the Centre's upcoming approval for the new terminal construction at Bhubaneswar airport, citing increased passenger numbers. The terminal, expected to be completed in two years, aims to boost capacity from 40 lakh to 80 lakh annually.

Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu announced on Friday that the central government is set to approve the construction of a new terminal at Bhubaneswar's Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) within the next month, citing a surge in passenger traffic.

During a review meeting, Naidu highlighted that the current Terminal-1, designed for 40 lakh passengers annually, is now facilitating around 50 lakh, indicating a pressing need for expansion to accommodate up to 80 lakh fliers each year. He assured that relevant security protocols will be met before permission is granted.

The minister also pointed to BPIA's significant growth, connecting 20 cities in India and four international locales. Addressing other developments, Naidu mentioned ongoing extensions and upgrades to existing infrastructure, including the Instrument Landing System, set to conclude shortly. The ministry is evaluating new routes to Jammu, Surat, Jaipur, and Vizag. Concerning Puri's proposed international airport, the Centre is fully backing its timely completion.

(With inputs from agencies.)