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CHANDIGARH: The Punjab government officially credited Cabinet Minister Sanjeev Arora for the successful operationalisation of the Halwara Airport project. According to an official statement, the project reached completion due to Arora’s “sustained, consistent, and multi-level efforts” across several years.
The government highlighted that the terminal’s launch serves as a culmination of Arora’s relentless pursuit of the matter. While earlier delays stalled progress, his transition from a Rajya Sabha MP to a Cabinet Minister allowed him to push for critical funding and federal approvals. This advocacy ensured that Ludhiana finally gained the modern aviation infrastructure required for its massive industrial sector.
A Landmark Achievement for Punjab’s Aviation
The operationalisation of the Halwara Airport terminal comes after nearly three decades of anticipation. This achievement stems from the sustained and multi-level efforts of Punjab Cabinet Minister Sanjeev Arora. As a former Rajya Sabha MP, Arora pursued the project relentlessly across successive years. He coordinated with the Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Airports Authority of India (AAI) to ensure the project’s completion.
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The Punjab government released a statement highlighting the chronological journey of this project. It noted that Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann took the initiative to revive the stalled progress in November 2022. Subsequently, the state government released funds worth ₹50 crore in December 2022 to resume construction. Arora’s unwavering commitment ensured that the long-pending project moved from files to the runway.
Impact on Ludhiana’s Industrial and Economic Growth
Developed at the Indian Air Force base in the Raikot subdivision, the new civil terminal will serve as a gateway for the state. It caters specifically to Ludhiana and its surrounding industrial and agricultural hinterland. Unlike the older Sahnewal Airport, Halwara features a longer runway capable of handling A320-type aircrafts.
Moreover, the airport is equipped with an Instrument Landing System (ILS). This technology allows for safe landings during dense winter fog, which often disrupted flights at Sahnewal. Local industry leaders, including members of the Chamber of Industrial and Commercial Undertakings (CICU), view the airport as a game-changer. They believe it will reduce travel time for international buyers and slash logistics costs for textile and bicycle exporters.
Adampur Airport Renamed to Sri Guru Ravidas Ji Airport
In a concurrent move, Prime Minister Modi also visited Adampur Airport in Jalandhar. During this visit, he unveiled the airport’s new name: Sri Guru Ravidas Ji Airport. This renaming honors the 649th birth anniversary of the revered saint and social reformer.