Steering Punjab’s air connectivity into a promising era, the progress of the Halwara International Airport stands as a beacon of anticipation. With its completion drawing closer, the airport is poised to offer enhanced travel convenience to industrialists and students hailing from Ludhiana and neighboring districts. Rajya Sabha member of Parliament, Sanjeev Arora, recently confirmed that the construction of this international aviation hub is on track and will soon reach fruition.
Embarking on a site visit, Sanjeev Arora was accompanied by senior officials intricately involved in the development of the forthcoming international airport. The aim of the visit was to assess the ongoing construction work and delve into various facets of the project. The discussions encompassed pivotal aspects such as aircraft parking, runway connectivity, air-conditioning and lighting systems, CCTV surveillance, firefighting arrangements, power infrastructure, and security measures to be undertaken by Punjab Police upon the airport’s operational debut. The scope also extended to elements like parking facilities, entrance aesthetics, and the outer elevation of the terminal buildings.
Situated 40 kilometers away from Ludhiana, the international airport is poised to transform the region’s air connectivity landscape. Anticipated to reach completion by September of this year, the project has traversed a journey marked by a few delays. Having missed initial deadlines in January and June 2022, the project leaders are determined to uphold punctuality in its final stages.
The expansive endeavor was executed in two distinct phases. The first encompassed the development of internal roads, estate public health services, and campus lighting. The second phase revolved around the construction of the airport terminal building, situated within the Air Force Station in Halwara. Notably, this airbase holds the distinction of being one of the oldest frontline installations of the Indian Air Force (IAF), situated in close proximity to Ludhiana.
Envisioned to serve as a gateway for the region, the airport terminal will extend connectivity to the Army area. The transition of responsibility to the Airport Authority of India (AAI) is set to transpire once the construction concludes, marking a significant stride in operational readiness.
Highlighting the extensive impact of the airport, Sanjeev Arora emphasized that the project’s significance transcends the boundaries of Ludhiana, encompassing the entire state’s business community. As operationalization nears, the airport holds the promise of streamlining air travel for not only the industrialists but also students across Ludhiana and the neighboring districts.
Among the noteworthy enhancements in progress, the taxiway is currently undergoing expansion, geared toward accommodating increased traffic. Furthermore, an approach-way from within the terminal complex will seamlessly connect to the runway at the IAF station, enhancing operational efficiency.
Halwara International Airport stands as a testament to India’s ongoing strides in the aviation sector. As part of a series of initiatives aimed at elevating both domestic and international connectivity, the airport’s imminent completion signifies a pivotal chapter in the nation’s journey towards bolstering passenger and cargo transportation options.
In conclusion, the journey of Halwara International Airport nearing completion resonates with the promise of improved air connectivity for Punjab. Amidst its construction progress, the project embodies the collaborative spirit of development, with officials and stakeholders striving to usher in a new era of seamless travel. As the airport inches closer to its operational debut, the landscape of Punjab’s air travel stands poised for transformation, heralding a brighter horizon for industrialists, students, and all who will benefit from its enhanced connectivity.
