Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new Terminal 2 building at Lokapriya Gopinath Bardoloi International Airport in Guwahati, Assam, on Saturday.
Expanding Connectivity in Northeast India
The new terminal is designed to accommodate approximately 13.1 million passengers annually. Construction of the facility cost ₹4,000 crore, with a total project cost of ₹5,000 crore, including ₹1,000 crore allocated for Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facilities.
Officials state the expanded airport is intended to serve as a key aviation hub for the entire Northeast region. The terminal building itself spans 1,40,000 square metres and its design reflects Assam’s biodiversity and cultural heritage.
During the inauguration, PM Modi also unveiled an 80-foot statue of Gopinath Bardoloi located outside the airport. Prior to the inauguration, PM Modi shared images of the terminal on social media, describing it as a significant improvement to Assam’s infrastructure and a boost for commerce and tourism.
Looking ahead, increased passenger capacity could lead to more direct flight routes and potentially lower travel costs for residents and businesses in the Northeast. The airport’s development may also spur further investment in related industries, such as hospitality and logistics. It is also possible that other airports in the region may seek to expand their capacity in response to Guwahati’s enhanced capabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the passenger capacity of the new terminal?
The newly-inaugurated Terminal 2 building is designed to handle around 13.1 million passengers per year.
How much did the airport project cost?
The total cost of the project is ₹5,000 crore, with ₹4,000 crore specifically for the terminal building and ₹1,000 crore for Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facilities.
What inspired the design of the new terminal?
The design of the new terminal building was inspired by Assam’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage.
As the Guwahati airport expands its role as a regional hub, what impact do you foresee on travel and economic opportunities in Northeast India?
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