Seven New Airports in Andhra Pradesh; Iconic Terminal at Gannavaram Airport
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu has announced plans to construct seven new airports in the state. The new airports are proposed to be built in Kuppam, Dagadarthi, Srikakulam, Tadepalligudem, Nagarjuna Sagar, Tuni-Annvaram, and Ongole. This announcement was made during a review meeting held yesterday at Chandrababu Naidu’s residence in Undavalli, attended by the state’s Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu and officials from the Airports Authority of India.
Regarding the airport in Srikakulam, Chandrababu Naidu stated that the feasibility survey has already been completed, and the airport will be constructed in two phases over an area of 1,383 acres. Land acquisition for this project is currently in progress. He further added that the airport at Dagadarthi will be built on 1,379 acres, of which 635 acres have already been acquired. Airports at Nagarjuna Sagar, Tadepalligudem, Ongole, and Tuni-Annvaram will require 1,670 acres, 1,123 acres, 657 acres, and 757 acres respectively.
The Chief Minister also gave specific approval for the design of a new terminal building at Gannavaram Airport, themed around the cultural heritage of Andhra Pradesh, incorporating elements inspired by Kuchipudi dance and the Amaravati Stupa. Chandrababu Naidu directed officials to complete the airport expansion and terminal construction works within six months.
In addition, Chandrababu Naidu mentioned that Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) is setting up a refinery in Dagadarthi, while new industrial projects are being planned in Anakapalli district, including a steel plant in Nakkapalli. The Chief Minister also revealed that a proposal to establish an airstrip in Sri City is under consideration. Plans are being explored for setting up an aviation university and a pilot training center to cater to future demands. Naidu emphasized the need to develop infrastructure to accommodate increased private aircraft parking in the coming years.