Punjab Halwara Civil Terminal Nears Launch with PM Modi Set for Virtual Inauguration on July 27
Punjab’s long-awaited Halwara Civil Terminal in Ludhiana district is on the cusp of inauguration, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi slated to virtually dedicate the facility to the public on July 27. This milestone marks a significant boost for regional air connectivity, fulfilling a demand from local residents and the industrial community for enhanced aviation infrastructure in Central Punjab. Despite numerous delays since its approval in 2018, the project has now reached completion, with final preparations underway.
The new terminal, constructed near the Indian Air Force (IAF) base in Halwara, Raikot sub-division, involved the acquisition of 162 acres of land from 272 farmers in Aitiana village. The total project cost is estimated at ₹54 crore, with ₹27 crore allocated for the terminal building and another ₹27 crore for the tarmac. Notably, the terminal features a steel-intensive structural design, emphasizing durability and efficiency.
Initially, the terminal is designed to handle one domestic flight at a time, accommodating 150 passengers each for arrivals and departures. It boasts a longer runway and advanced Instrument Landing System (ILS) for low-visibility operations, addressing issues faced by the existing Sahnewal airport, which can only cater to 72-seater ATR flights. Halwara, in contrast, can handle larger aircraft like the 172-seater Boeing. While the inauguration is confirmed, official dates for the commencement of flight operations, possibly by Air India, are still pending, with expectations of flights commencing by September.
The project faced several setbacks, including funding issues that halted construction, but resumed momentum after intervention from the Punjab Government. Punjab’s Industries and NRI Affairs Minister, Sanjeev Arora, confirmed the inauguration, acknowledging its importance for Ludhiana’s economy. While the state government proposed renaming the airport after freedom fighter Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha, Centre’s approval is still awaited.
The new Halwara airport is expected to significantly enhance air travel for Ludhiana’s industrial hub, reducing reliance on airports in other cities. It promises to boost exports, attract investors, and promote tourism, thereby contributing substantially to the socio-economic development of the region. This strategic infrastructure addition signals a new era for Punjab’s aviation landscape.
