Port Blair: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday inaugurated the new integrated terminal building of Veer Savarkar International Airport, Port Blair in presence of Union minister of civil aviation Jyotiraditya M Scindia.
The new terminal building of the airport is built at a cost of ₹710 Crore, on a 40,837 square meters area, and is capable of serving 1200 passengers during peak hours, which is more than three times the current capacity. Inspired by the rich biodiversity of the picturesque islands, the Port Blair terminal building is an oyster-shaped structure that reflects the beauty of the sea and the island.
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The terminal building of Veer Savarkar International Airport has been designed in such a way that the terminal is fully lit naturally during the daytime. A statue of freedom fighter, Veer Savarkar, has also also erected at the airport. Scindia also unveiled the statue.
The event was organized in hybrid mode. The Prime Minister inaugurated the terminal building by pressing a remote button through video conferencing and other dignitaries were present at the airport, said a senior officer of the Union civil aviation ministry.
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Speaking on the occasion, Union civil aviation minister Scindia said “Andaman & Nicobar is among the most beautiful gems of our country. It has witnessed major significant events in the history of Indian Independence. Veer Savarkar International Airport represents the incredible biodiversity of flora and fauna. Designed in the shape of an oyster, this airport doesn’t need an external source of light during the daytime. In terms of sustainability, this airport has double insulating system, LED lighting, rainwater catchment, and solar water plant.”
Apart from this airport, 3 additional airports in Shibpur, Car Nicobar, and Campbell, as well as 4 water aerodromes in Shaheed Dweep, Swaraj Dweep, and Port Blair, will be established by the Central government at an investment of ₹150 crores.
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Veer Savarkar International Airport, also known as Port Blair Airport, is located about 2 km south of Port Blair, Andaman Nicobar Islands. It is the only commercial airport of Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Port Blair is the capital of the serene Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Located on the east coast of South Andaman Island, Port Blair is the gateway to more than 500 pristine islands. It is also a bustling commercial hub and houses government establishments of Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Port Blair offers water-based activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, sea cruises, and glimpses of the history and culture of the region.
