Delhi, 29 May (H.S.): Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new terminal of Jayprakash Narayan International Airport and laid the foundation stone for a civil enclave at Bihta Airport, 30 km from Patna. He was welcomed by Bihar Governor Arif Mohammad Khan, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, and cabinet members.
The new Patna airport terminal spans 65,150 sqm with world-class amenities, accommodating 3,000 passengers during peak hours and 1 crore annually. Its design reflects local landscapes and Mithila art. Alongside a proposed civil enclave at Bihta, which will feature a 68,000 sqm terminal serving 3,000 passengers at peak times and 50 lakh annually by 2047, these developments will enhance domestic travel and state connectivity, promoting tourism, trade, and investment. The infrastructure includes a multilevel car park and service block, integrating historical influences. Features like insulated roofing and LED lighting ensure comfort. This initiative aims to boost the region as an economic hub, attracting investments in education and healthcare, generating job opportunities.
A vibrant crowd, including women adorned with vermilion and youths in Army uniforms, gathered to honor PM Modi as he arrived in a bulletproof car. The five-km route from the airport to the Income Tax roundabout was decorated with national flags and 35 arches, with participants chanting slogans like Bharat Mata Ki Jai. The event marked Modi's first visit to Bihar following Operation Sindoor, aimed at combating terrorism after the Pahalgam incident. BJP supporters, including Ratna Pandey, expressed the significance of this visit for the state's morale. Crowds showered flowers on Modi's vehicle as he acknowledged their presence.
At the end of the roadshow, leaders of the NDA gathered at the Income Tax roundabout, where Modi received a warm welcome at the BJP headquarters. His two-day visit includes a public meeting in Bikramganj, Rohtas district, and the inauguration of various projects worth over ₹50,000 crore. PM Modi is set to spend the night at Raj Bhawan, where he will meet Governor Khan. The roadshow and public meeting are strategically significant given the approaching assembly elections in October and November. During his previous visit, Modi had issued stern warnings to terrorists, emphasizing the government's commitment to safety and security.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
