Guwahati, December 20 (NationPress) — On Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially opened the new terminal at Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (LGBIA) in Guwahati, marking an impressive and expedited transition from idea to execution in less than a year.

This initiative was spearheaded by Guwahati International Airport Limited, with Adani Airport Holdings Limited (AAHL) overseeing operational management.

Gautam Adani, the Chairman of the Adani Group, emphasized that the Guwahati terminal exemplifies the potential for rapidly delivering exceptional airport infrastructure while staying true to local heritage.

He stated, “This will enhance connectivity, foster economic development throughout the Northeast, and provide travelers with a contemporary and smooth travel experience.”

The comprehensive airport enhancement represents a substantial investment of Rs 5,000 crore, which includes Rs 1,000 crore allocated for Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facilities.

Additionally, the planned integration of domestic and international cargo facilities is expected to bolster trade, logistics, and job creation across the area.

The terminal's inauguration, with operations anticipated to start by the conclusion of February, highlights the rapid pace at which India is conceptualizing, constructing, and preparing its aviation infrastructure for operational readiness.

A thorough Operational Readiness and Airport Transfer (ORAT) program, supported by a specialized team from Munich, Germany, has guaranteed that systems, processes, personnel, and passenger flows are configured for a safe and efficient launch from day one.

Designed as a modern entryway reflective of regional identity, the terminal, aptly named “The Bamboo Orchids,” is inspired by Assam’s signature kopou phool (foxtail orchid) and local bamboo types like Bholuka bamboo from Assam and Apatani bamboo from Arunachal Pradesh.

Approximately 140 metric tonnes of bamboo sourced from the region has been incorporated into the terminal, making it one of India’s leading examples of nature-inspired airport architecture, where traditional artistry meets contemporary engineering.

With DigiYatra-enabled processing, advanced check-in systems, and spacious passenger areas, the terminal is projected to accommodate 13.1 million passengers annually by 2032.

In the fiscal year 2024-25, Guwahati Airport managed 6.50 million passengers, highlighting the region's growing aviation demand.

The Prime Minister revealed the terminal's design in February during the ‘Advantage Assam 2.0’ event.