Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday formally inaugurated the newly constructed terminal building at Lokapriya Gopinath Bardoloi International Airport in Assam’s capital, Guwahati, marking a major milestone in the region’s aviation and infrastructure development. Built at an estimated cost of ₹4,000 crore, the terminal is India’s first airport facility designed around a nature-inspired theme and represents a significant upgrade in passenger handling capacity and modern amenities.
Following the inauguration, the Prime Minister toured the terminal complex and also unveiled an 80-foot statue of Lokapriya Gopinath Bardoloi, Assam’s first chief minister, after whom the airport is named. Addressing the gathering, Modi said that world-class airport infrastructure and modern transport facilities play a critical role in unlocking economic opportunities for any state. He described the new terminal as the beginning of a “new chapter” in Assam’s development journey.
The Prime Minister further remarked that the pace and scale of development currently visible in Assam and the wider Northeast reflected a renewed focus on the region. He criticised previous Congress-led governments, stating that the development needs of Assam and the Northeast had not been prioritised earlier, and asserted that the present progress demonstrated a shift toward greater justice and balanced growth.
The newly inaugurated terminal is designed to handle more than 13 million passengers every year, making it the largest airport terminal in the northeastern region. Officials said the overall project cost is around ₹5,000 crore, which includes an additional ₹1,000 crore earmarked for maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facilities, further strengthening the airport’s operational capabilities.
According to authorities, the expanded airport is envisioned as a major aviation hub for Northeast India and a key gateway connecting the region with Southeast Asia. The terminal has been developed by Adani Airports Holdings Limited, and its architectural design prominently features bamboo and orchid-inspired motifs, showcasing Assam’s natural beauty and cultural identity.
Officials noted that the project was executed through close coordination between the central and state governments. Himanta Biswa Sarma had earlier approved ₹116.2 crore for the expansion and improvement of approach roads leading to the terminal and had personally reviewed the project’s facilities to ensure timely completion.
A day before the inauguration, Prime Minister Modi shared a preview of the terminal on social media, describing it as a major boost to Assam’s infrastructure. He said the increased passenger capacity would not only enhance connectivity but also contribute to higher living standards, while supporting commerce, tourism and economic growth across the state and the broader Northeast region.
