Amaravati: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport on August 1, marking a major milestone for Andhra Pradesh's aviation infrastructure.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has directed officials to make extensive arrangements for the inauguration, describing the airport as a transformative project for North Andhra's economic and social development.

Airport to Initially Handle 6 Million Passengers

Developed by GMR Visakhapatnam International Airport Limited> (GVIAL), the greenfield airport will initially have the capacity to serve 6 million passengers per year.

The airport is being developed in three phases, with long-term plans to expand its capacity to over 40 million passengers annually, making it one of the region's major aviation hubs.

Key Features of the New Airport

The new international airport includes several modern aviation facilities, including:

• A 3,800-meter Code 4E runway
• Integrated passenger terminal
• Cargo handling facilities
• Advanced airside infrastructure
• Capacity to handle both domestic and international flights

Officials say the airport has been designed to support future growth in passenger traffic and cargo operations.

Read more: PM Modi Breaks Silence on Paper Leak Amid CJP Protest: What He Said

Airport Expected to Boost Economy and Tourism

According to Chief Minister Naidu, the airport will significantly improve connectivity across North Andhra while generating employment opportunities, attracting investments, and promoting tourism.

He also highlighted that the project is expected to strengthen commercial activity and improve the socio-economic development of the region.

Grand Cultural Welcome Planned for PM Modi

The state government is planning a large cultural welcome for the Prime Minister during the inauguration ceremony.

Traditional Dhimsa tribal dance performances, Kuchipudi presentations, handicraft displays, and exhibitions showcasing regional attractions, including Araku Coffee, are expected to be part of the celebrations.

The government is also promoting the event through a public awareness campaign titled "Wings to the Dreams of North Andhra."

PM Modi's August 1 Schedule

According to the official itinerary:

• 10:45 AM: Arrival at Bhogapuram from Delhi
• 10:58 AM: Inauguration of the airport terminal and inspection of facilities
• 11:30 AM – 12:55 PM: Public meeting and address
• More than 13,500 tribal women and students are expected to welcome the Prime Minister with a large Dhimsa dance performance.
• The Prime Minister will also lay foundation stones and dedicate infrastructure projects worth $2.1 billion (approximately ₹18,000 crore) related to petroleum, road transport, and other sectors before departing for Delhi at 1:10 PM.