VIJAYAWADA: Expecting a huge influx of air travellers for the ensuing Krishna Pushkarams commencing from August 12, the authorities of Vijayawada airport at Gannavaram are leaving no stone unturned to make the Pushkarams visit a memorable event for the pilgrims. Though the terminal building works of the airport are still in progress, officials expressed confidence that they would ensure hassle-free trip to pilgrims.
Speaking to Express, Vijayawada Airport director G Madhusudhan Rao said that the passenger traffic improved considerably at the Vijayawada Airport after the announcement was made as part of the proposed State capital Amaravati.
“We are expecting a rise in volume of passengers during the mega event, much more than the normal days. At present, there are six parking bays to park the scheduled flights like Airbus 390 and 320, and ATR 72 at the airport,” he said.
“Ten additional parking bays are proposed to be ready before the Krishna Pushkarams. Of them, five are developed to park non-scheduled flights (chartered flights) coming for the river festival. As of now, only Air Costa has come forward to operate four additional flights. There was no clarity from other air operators regarding special flights. We are expecting four or five chartered flights will reach the airport during the mega event,” Madhusudhan Rao added.
Cleanliness is the top most priority on the airport premises. Additional sanitation staff are being hired to maintain hygiene on the terminal premises. Pleasant ambiance is being developed on the terminal building, arrival and departure blocks.
Students of NTR College of Veterinary Science are teemed to offer ceremonial welcome to the pilgrims. Floral decoration and floral rangoli are going to be the major attraction at the airport. Pushkar Jyothi will be lit up on the terminal.
“As many as 36 CCTV cameras are installed on the terminal premises for surveillance round-the-clock. Flight arrival information display boards are being arranged near the arrival and departure blocks. The parking lot at the terminal premises will provide parking space for 300 cars,” Madhusudhan Rao said.