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Ayodhya : In a historic move, the newly constructed airport in Ayodhya is set to be officially named ‘Maharishi Valmiki International Airport Ayodhya Dham.’ Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the airport on December 30, marking a significant milestone in the city’s aviation history.
Developed at a cost exceeding ₹1,450 crore, the airport’s terminal building spans 6500 sqm and is designed to accommodate approximately 10 lakh passengers annually. The architectural facade of the terminal reflects the upcoming Shri Ram Mandir’s temple design. Adorned with local art, paintings, and murals depicting the life of Bhagwan Shri Ram, the terminal aims to create a unique cultural experience for travelers.
The Ayodhya airport’s terminal boasts various sustainability features, including an insulated roofing system, LED lighting, rainwater harvesting, fountains, water treatment, sewage treatment plants, and a solar power facility. These initiatives have earned the airport a prestigious GRIHA 5-star rating. The airport is expected to enhance regional connectivity, fostering increased tourism, business activities, and employment opportunities, as stated by the Prime Minister’s Office.
The decision to rename the airport comes after the earlier nomenclature, ‘Maryada Purshottam Shri Ram Ayodhya International Airport.’ This change aligns with recent adjustments, such as renaming the Ayodhya railway station to ‘Ayodhya Dham’ junction. The move aims to emphasize Ayodhya’s deep-rooted cultural and historical significance.
Initially planned on 178 acres, the airport’s scope expanded to 821 acres following a proposal by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s administration. Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia emphasized the integration of Ayodhya’s culture into the airport, stating, “When someone visits Ayodhya’s airport, they should get a glimpse of the city’s historic significance.” The 6500 square meter airport features a 2200-meter runway, with plans to extend it to 3700 meters in the second stage to accommodate international flights.
With this inauguration, Ayodhya’s airport is poised not just to be a transportation hub but a cultural gateway, reflecting the city’s rich heritage for visitors from around the globe.
