The Ayodhya Airport was completed in a record time of 20 months, as confirmed by the Chairman of the Airports Authority of India (AAI), Sanjeev Kumar. The AAI undertook the construction of the airport, which was strategically planned to improve air connectivity for the upcoming Ram Mandir consecration ceremony, following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Government of Uttar Pradesh in April last year.
The Ayodhya Airport, with an area of 821 acres generously provided by the Uttar Pradesh government, is poised to play a pivotal role in transforming the region’s connectivity and economy. Chairman Sanjeev Kumar expressed his delight at the quick completion, emphasizing the significance of air connectivity for Ayodhya.
भारतीय विमानपत्तन प्राधिकरण द्वारा ₹350 करोड़ की लागत से विकसित ‘महर्षि वाल्मीकि अंतरराष्ट्रीय हवाईअड्डा #अयोध्या धाम’ उद्घाटन के लिए तैयार है। 6500 वर्ग मीटर क्षेत्र में निर्मित इस टर्मिनल भवन के सौंदर्यीकरण में कलात्मकता के साथ विभिन्न प्रकार के फूलों का उपयोग किया गया है। pic.twitter.com/tSRcy9T1K6
— Airports Authority of India (@AAI_Official) December 30, 2023
“The airport has been built in Ayodhya, and AAI has completed it in a record time of 20 months,” stated Chairman Sanjeev Kumar during an interview with ANI in Ayodhya. He highlighted the positive impact on connectivity and the excitement within the Airport Authority about this expansion.
Designed to cater to the influx of pilgrims visiting the Ram Mandir and other nearby religious sites such as Ram ki Paidi, Hanuman Garhi, Nageshwar Nath Temple, and Birla Temple, the airport is expected to boost pilgrimage tourism and facilitate business activities throughout the year.
The initial phase of the Ayodhya Airport features a runway with a length of 2200 meters, suitable for A-321-type aircraft operations. The second phase involves the development of a new terminal building spanning 50,000 square meters, capable of serving 4000 passengers during peak hours and accommodating 60 lakh passengers annually.
The airport’s inauguration, scheduled for today, will be officiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Named Maharishi Valmiki International Airport Ayodhya Dham, the airport represents a significant gateway for pilgrims and tourists, contributing to the overall growth of the region.
Constructed for Rs 350 crore, the Ayodhya Airport includes a terminal building, an ATC tower, a fire station, car parking, and other city-side infrastructure. The terminal building, covering 6500 square meters, boasts passenger-friendly features such as check-in counters, conveyor belts, and X-BIS machines.
Reflecting the rich history and cultural significance of Ayodhya, the airport’s terminal building draws inspiration from the architecture of the upcoming Shri Ram Mandir. Adorned with local artefacts, paintings, and murals depicting the life of Lord Ram, the structure creates an ambience of spirituality.
Furthermore, the terminal building incorporates sustainability features such as an insulated roofing system, LED lighting, rainwater harvesting, and a solar power plant with a capacity of 250 KWP to meet GRIHA 5-star ratings. The airport’s commitment to environmental responsibility aligns with its integral role in Ayodhya’s cultural and economic landscape.