Bhogapuram Airport Set to Become the ‘Jewel of North Andhra’, Says CM Naidu

AMARAVATI, July 20: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Monday described the upcoming Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport at Bhogapuram as a transformational project that will redefine the future of North Andhra. Scheduled to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 1, the airport is expected to significantly improve regional connectivity, attract investments and stimulate long-term economic growth.

During a high-level review meeting with senior officials, Naidu assessed the preparations for the inaugural ceremony and directed departments to ensure flawless arrangements for the Prime Minister’s visit. He stressed that the event should reflect the cultural richness and hospitality of North Andhra while highlighting the state’s development ambitions.

Traditional Welcome Planned for Prime Minister

The Chief Minister instructed officials to organize a warm and traditional reception for Prime Minister Modi, showcasing the unique customs, art forms and cultural identity of the coastal region. According to officials, the inauguration ceremony is expected to attract a large gathering of public representatives, industry stakeholders, local residents and beneficiaries of the project.

Naidu emphasized that every aspect of the event should be managed professionally to ensure a memorable experience for visitors and dignitaries alike.

Airport Expected to Transform Regional Economy

Calling the airport a milestone infrastructure project, Naidu said the facility would become a major driver of economic activity in North Andhra. With improved domestic and international connectivity, the airport is expected to strengthen trade, tourism, logistics and industrial development across the region.

He observed that enhanced air connectivity would make the area more attractive for businesses while opening new opportunities in sectors such as aviation services, exports, hospitality and employment generation.

The Chief Minister said the airport would not only improve passenger travel but also contribute significantly to Andhra Pradesh’s long-term growth strategy by integrating the region with global markets.

Multiple Development Projects to Be Dedicated

Officials informed the Chief Minister that Prime Minister Modi is also scheduled to inaugurate several complementary projects alongside the passenger terminal.

These include:

The GMR Skill Development Centre
The Aviation Hub-University
The GMR-MANSAS Edu City

The government believes these institutions will strengthen skill development, higher education and aviation-related training, creating new opportunities for students and professionals across the state.

Recognition for Farmers Who Contributed Land

Naidu directed officials to recognize the contribution of farmers and landowners who voluntarily provided land for the airport project. As a gesture of appreciation, he suggested offering them a one-time complimentary air journey.

The Chief Minister said the success of the airport project was possible because of the cooperation extended by local communities and that their contribution deserved public acknowledgement.

Comprehensive Arrangements Ordered

To ensure smooth conduct of the inauguration programme, Naidu instructed officials to prepare detailed operational plans covering all logistical aspects.

These include:

Effective traffic management and diversions
Designated parking zones
Multi-layer security arrangements
Public convenience facilities
Crowd management measures
Coordination among all government departments

Officials have been asked to maintain close coordination with security agencies and local authorities to ensure the event proceeds without disruption.

Public Outreach Campaign Begins

The Andhra Pradesh government will launch an extensive awareness campaign on the Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport from July 22 to July 31.

Naidu said the inauguration should evolve into a people’s celebration rather than remain a government event. He directed officials and elected representatives to organize outreach programmes throughout North Andhra, ensuring residents understand the airport’s significance and future benefits.

The campaign will include public meetings, awareness drives and information dissemination across villages and urban centres in the region.

Boosting the Brand Value of Araku Coffee

The Chief Minister also proposed using the inauguration as an opportunity to promote Araku Coffee, one of Andhra Pradesh’s globally recognized products.

He noted that Prime Minister Modi has previously highlighted Araku Coffee on international platforms and suggested integrating the product into the event’s promotional activities. According to Naidu, the airport’s launch offers an ideal platform to further strengthen the global identity of North Andhra’s agricultural and tourism products.

Public Representatives Asked to Participate

Naidu directed elected representatives from all North Andhra districts to actively participate in the programmes leading up to the inauguration. Their involvement, he said, would help create greater public awareness and encourage community participation in celebrating the state’s newest aviation infrastructure.

The government expects the airport to become a symbol of modern development while accelerating economic opportunities across Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram, Srikakulam and neighbouring regions.

A New Aviation Hub for Andhra Pradesh

Once operational, the Bhogapuram International Airport is expected to ease passenger traffic, improve logistics infrastructure and enhance Andhra Pradesh’s connectivity with major domestic and international destinations. With integrated educational, skill development and aviation facilities, the project is being positioned as a catalyst for regional transformation, reinforcing the state’s vision of becoming a major investment and transportation hub in southern India.