Bhogapuram airport to herald new era for North Andhra: Palla Srinivasa Rao

The inauguration of the Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport at Bhogapuram on August 1 is set to become a landmark event for North Andhra, with nearly four lakh people expected to witness Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicate the greenfield airport to the nation.

Andhra Pradesh Telugu Desam Party (TDP) president and Gajuwaka MLA Palla Srinivasa Rao said elaborate arrangements were under way in line with the Prime Minister’s Office protocol to ensure smooth conduct of the mega event.

Speaking after a review meeting chaired by Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha at the Collectorate, he said around one lakh people from the erstwhile Visakhapatnam district and nearly three lakhs from other parts of North Andhra are expected to attend. Authorities are making extensive security and traffic arrangements, besides ensuring public convenience.

Mr. Srinivasa Rao said the airport had been planned with a long-term vision to meet future aviation needs arising from population growth and regional expansion. Equipped with modern infrastructure, it is expected to improve connectivity and spur investment, tourism and employment across North Andhra.

Apart from inaugurating the airport, Prime Minister Modi, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Union ministers are expected to inaugurate the Aviation Hub-University, Educity and the GMR Skill Development Centre. They will also lay the foundation stone for the ASIP Technologies semiconductor facility in Visakhapatnam.

The inaugural programme will include cultural performances, including the traditional Dhimsa tribal dance, showcasing the heritage of North Andhra.