KADAPA: Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually laid the foundation stone for a new terminal building at Kadapa Airport on Sunday, marking a crucial step towards the expansion of aviation services and infrastructure in YSR district.
The new terminal building, which will be built at an estimated cost of Rs 266 crore, is spread across an area of 16,455 square metres and feature 24 check-in counters, two conveyor belts, three X-BIS machines, and three aero bridges. It has a peak hour serving capacity of 1,800 people and a projected annual footfall of 25 lakh passengers. The terminal will enhance passenger experience and operational efficiency.
In addition to the terminal building, plans are underway to widen key roads, connecting Kadapa to Bengaluru, Tirupati, and Nellore, further bolstering the district’s transportation infrastructure. Speaking on the occasion, Deputy CM SB Amzath Basha emphasised the significance of the new terminal building, highlighting its potential to enhance air connectivity and drive economic growth in the region.
District Collector V Vijay Ramaraju praised Prime Minister Modi’s efforts to modernise civil aviation services across India and elaborated on the importance of the new terminal building in meeting the growing demand for air travel and providing state-of-the-art facilities to passengers.
Kadapa MP Avinash Reddy lauded the efforts of the district administration in securing approvals and land acquisitions for the airport expansion project. He also highlighted the government’s commitment to ensuring continuous flight services through initiatives like the UDAN scheme.
Further, Rajya Sabha member CM Ramesh Naidu lauded Prime Minister Modi’s vision for the Indian aviation sector, emphasising the importance of eco-friendly technology and modern management practices in driving progress. He hailed Kadapa’s growing prominence as a vital hub in the State, facilitating convenient travel for residents and visitors alike.
Kamalapuram MLA Ravindranath Reddy credited former CM Dr YS Rajasekhara Reddy for restoring flight services during his tenure and implementing the UDAN scheme to make air travel more accessible to the public.
In a live address preceding the stone-laying ceremony, PM Modi reiterated the government’s commitment to modernise and transform airports across the country. He emphasised the importance of enhancing aviation facilities and safety standards to facilitate faster civil aviation services.
It features 24 check-in counters, 2 conveyor belts
The new terminal building is spread across an area of 16,455 square metres and feature 24 check-in counters, two conveyor belts, three X-BIS machines, and three aero bridges. The terminal will significantly enhance passenger experience and operational efficiency