HT Digital,
Ayodhya, Dec 28: The newly constructed airport in Ayodhya, initially known as Maryada Purushottam Shri Ram International Airport, is set to be renamed Maharishi Valmiki International Airport Ayodhya Dham.
This change honors the legendary poet and sage Maharishi Valmiki, who is celebrated for composing the epic Ramayana, a revered text deeply connected with the city’s cultural and religious heritage.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the airport on December 30, 2023, marking a significant milestone in the development of Ayodhya as a major pilgrimage and tourist destination. The inauguration coincides with the consecration ceremony of the Ram Mandir, further highlighting the city’s spiritual significance.
The airport, developed by Bangalore-based Vishal Infrastructure, is strategically located adjacent to NH-27 and NH-330 at Naka, Faizabad in the Ayodhya district. It represents a substantial investment exceeding Rs 1,450 crore and features a terminal designed to accommodate approximately 10 lakh passengers annually. The design of the airport reflects the architectural grandeur of the Ram temple, with interiors adorned with local art, paintings, and murals depicting Lord Ram’s life.
Commercial operations are set to begin on January 6, 2024, with direct flights between Ayodhya and Delhi, followed by connections to Ahmedabad from January 11 onwards. The airport is expected to boost regional connectivity, catalyze tourism, and create new commercial and employment opportunities.
The subsequent development phase of the airport includes plans for a larger terminal and infrastructure enhancements to support increased passenger capacity and larger aircraft, ensuring that Ayodhya’s airport is well-equipped to handle the anticipated growth in visitor numbers following the completion of the Ram Temple.