Ayodhya is prepared for the updated air connectivity with an important inauguration of its first airport, alongside the divine consecration ceremony of the Ram Mandir. The Airport Authority of India (AAI) Chairman, Sanjeev Kumar, proudly stated that the construction was completed over 20 months, crediting the success to the collaboration outlined in the MoU signed with the Government of Uttar Pradesh in April last year. A remarkable feast with the completion of the airport to provide enhanced services to the people of Ayodhya.
The Uttar Pradesh government contributed 821 acres of land for the Ayodhya Airport’s development. Sanjeev Kumar emphasized the necessity and importance of air connectivity for Ayodhya, expressing the AAI’s enthusiasm for the expansion. The newly constructed airport, with a runway length of 2200m, is best-suitable for A-321-type aircraft operations. Additionally, plans for the next phase comprise a larger terminal building, runway extension, and infrastructure to accommodate larger aircraft like the B-777.
The Ayodhya Airport aims to help pilgrims visit the Shri Ram Mandir and other nearby pilgrimage sites, such as Ram ki Paidi, Hanuman Garhi, Nageshwar Nath Temple, and Birla Temple. This development is expected to boost business and pilgrimage tourism year-round, contributing to the overall economic growth of the region.
The terminal building, inspired by the architecture of the upcoming Shri Ram Mandir, spans 6500 sqm and features local artifacts, paintings, and murals depicting the life of Bhagwan Shri Ram. Sustainability is an important focus, with features like insulated roofing, energy-saving canopies, LED lighting, rainwater harvesting, and a solar power plant to achieve a GRIHA 5-star rating.
The Ayodhya Airport, officially named Maharishi Valmiki International Airport Ayodhya Dham, was constructed for Rs 350 Crore. Prime Minister Modi reached Ayodhya today and is prepared to inaugurate the airport today, marking it as a gateway for pilgrims and tourists while contributing to the region’s overall development.
