GUWAHATI, India (Diya TV) — India’s northeastern region has received a major boost in air travel infrastructure with the inauguration of the new Terminal 2 building at Lokapriya Gopinath Bardoloi International Airport in Guwahati. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi toured the modern terminal during its opening and called it a “major boost to Assam’s infrastructure.”
The newly constructed terminal is designed to handle up to 13.1 million passengers annually. Spread over 140,000 square meters, the facility combines modern architecture with elements inspired by Assam’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. Officials say the terminal will help position Guwahati as a key aviation hub for not only Assam but the entire Northeast.
The total cost of the airport expansion project is reported at ₹5,000 crore. Of this, ₹1,000 crore has been allocated specifically for Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities, which will support airline operations and maintenance needs. The terminal itself was constructed at an estimated cost of ₹4,000 crore.
Officials emphasized that the new infrastructure aims to improve the overall travel experience for passengers. The modern design includes spacious lounges, advanced baggage handling systems, and better connectivity, making it easier for travelers to navigate through the airport.
The terminal’s design draws inspiration from Assam’s natural and cultural heritage. Architectural elements reflect the state’s forests, rivers, and traditional arts. Large open spaces, glass facades, and natural lighting create a welcoming environment for travelers.
The airport is named after Assam’s first chief minister, Gopinath Bardoloi. To honor his legacy, Modi unveiled an 80-foot statue of Bardoloi outside the terminal during the inauguration. This addition reinforces the airport’s cultural significance and highlights Assam’s pride in its history.
The new terminal is expected to enhance Assam’s tourism and business environment. Officials note that increased passenger capacity will improve ease of living for residents and support economic growth in the region. By attracting more domestic and international flights, the airport aims to strengthen Assam’s connectivity with major cities across India and beyond.
Modi shared a glimpse of the terminal on X before the inauguration. He highlighted the benefits of improved infrastructure, noting that it would boost both commerce and tourism in the state.
During his visit to Assam, Modi paid tribute at the Shaheed Smarak Sthal, honoring martyrs of the historic Assam Movement. Following this, he traveled to Namrup in Dibrugarh for the groundbreaking ceremony of the Ammonia-Urea Fertilizer Project by Assam Valley Fertilizer and Chemical Company Limited. The project is expected to help meet fertilizer demand in Assam and nearby states while reducing imports and increasing self-reliance.
The PM’s visit underscores the government’s focus on strengthening Assam’s infrastructure and industrial growth. Combined with the new airport terminal, these projects aim to drive economic development and enhance connectivity in the region.
With Terminal 2 now operational, Guwahati airport is set to become a major hub in Northeast India. The airport’s modern facilities, cultural design, and expanded capacity are expected to improve passenger experience and attract more airlines. Officials hope that this development will strengthen Assam’s role as a center for commerce, tourism, and aviation in the coming years.
