Chandrababu Naidu invites PM Modi for Bhogapuram Airport inauguration on Aug 1
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Wednesday, 22 July called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Parliament House, New Delhi, formally inviting him to inaugurate the Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport in Bhogapuram, scheduled for 1 August. The meeting signals the Centre's continued partnership with Andhra Pradesh on infrastructure development as the state pushes to accelerate connectivity in its northern districts.
Who Was Present
Chief Minister Naidu was accompanied by Civil Aviation Minister K. Ram Mohan Naidu and Telegu Desam Party (TDP) parliamentary party leader Lavu Sri Krishna Devarayalu. The delegation met the Prime Minister at Parliament House, underscoring the political weight the ruling alliance attaches to the airport's launch.
What Naidu Said
'Honoured to meet Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji in New Delhi today. I had the privilege of inviting the Hon'ble Prime Minister to Andhra Pradesh for the inauguration of Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport, Bhogapuram,' Naidu posted on X.
The Chief Minister described the airport as a tribute to legendary freedom fighter Alluri Sitarama Raju, after whom it is named, citing his legacy of 'courage, sacrifice, and patriotism.' Naidu added that the airport's launch would 'give wings to the aspirations of Uttar Andhra, unlocking new opportunities for connectivity, tourism, trade, and economic growth.'
What Will Be Inaugurated
Beyond the passenger terminal building, Prime Minister Modi is expected to formally open three additional facilities on 1 August: the GMR Skill Development Centre, the Aviation Hub-University, and the GMR-MANSAS Edu City. Together, these are positioned as an integrated aviation and education ecosystem anchored around the new airport.
Naidu described Bhogapuram Airport as a potential logistics hub that would provide global connectivity and serve as a 'game changer' for Andhra Pradesh's economic growth, particularly for the North Andhra region.
Recognition for Land Contributors
In a notable gesture, Chief Minister Naidu directed officials to honour the farmers and landowners who surrendered land for the project by offering them a one-time complimentary air travel opportunity. The directive reflects a broader effort to build community goodwill around a project that required significant land acquisition.
Event Logistics and Security
Naidu instructed officials to put in place comprehensive event arrangements, including traffic diversions, dedicated parking facilities, and robust security protocols. He also directed that adequate public amenities be provided for attendees, indicating an expectation of a large turnout at the inauguration.
If confirmed, Prime Minister Modi's visit to Andhra Pradesh on 1 August would mark a significant milestone for North Andhra's infrastructure ambitions — and a visible endorsement of the state's development agenda ahead of upcoming political cycles.