Jodhpur is set for a landmark day. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the airport's brand new terminal building on Saturday at 10:45 am, a project built at a cost of around Rs 480 crore. The same event will also mark the launch of the second phase of the UDAN scheme, a step that promises better air connectivity for smaller towns across the country.
Rajasthan's First Airport With Six Aerobridges
The new terminal makes Jodhpur the first airport in Rajasthan to offer six aerobridges at once. The building combines modern technology, world-class passenger amenities and design touches drawn from Rajasthani culture, giving it an international feel. Its architecture also reflects Jodhpur's heritage and traditional Rajasthani style. Excitement is running high across the city ahead of the inauguration. The municipal corporation has carried out special cleaning and beautification of major roads, dressing up the city for the occasion. All eyes are now on this historic moment, when the grand terminal will be thrown open to the public, adding a new chapter to Jodhpur's development story.
Tight Security Blanket For The PM's Visit
Ahead of the Prime Minister's visit, the airport and its surrounding area have been placed under an impenetrable security cover. Local police, central security agencies and the administration are jointly managing the arrangements. Police Commissioner Sharat Kaviraj is personally monitoring the security setup. Checkpoints have been set up on every route leading to the airport, with vehicles and people undergoing thorough checks. The new terminal itself is designed to make the passenger journey far easier, safer and more comfortable than before.
What The New Terminal Offers
The new terminal is equipped with several modern facilities that will completely change the passenger experience:
- A modern in-line baggage screening system and several new check-in counters
- 4 escalators and 5 lifts
- 3 arrival conveyor belts
- 240 charging chairs and 7 electric vehicle charging points
- 2 VIP lounges and one executive lounge
- A large food court, shopping area and modern parking
An energy-conservation-based green building concept rounds off the terminal's international-standard design.
A Decade Of Growth For Jodhpur Airport
Jodhpur airport has grown remarkably over the past decade. Around 2014, only 6 to 8 flights operated from here each day. That number has now risen to 14 to 16 flights in summer and 25 to 30 in winter. According to airport director Dr Manoj Uniyal, passenger numbers have doubled in recent years, and the airport crossed the mark of 10 lakh annual passengers two years ago. The new terminal will multiply passenger capacity several times over, while aircraft parking capacity has been increased from 4 to 12. About 3,400 tonnes of iron went into constructing the building, which has been developed in line with green building standards.
