Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated the new terminal building at Lokapriya Gopinath Bardoloi International Airport in Guwahati, Assam, marking the launch of the country’s first nature-themed airport terminal. Built at a cost of Rs 40 billion, the terminal is designed to significantly enhance aviation infrastructure in the Northeast. Following the inauguration, the Prime Minister toured the facility and unveiled an 80-foot statue of Lokapriya Gopinath Bardoloi, Assam’s first chief minister, after whom the airport is named. Addressing the gathering, Modi said modern airport facilities and advanced infrastructure create new opportunities for states, adding that the development marked the beginning of a “new chapter” for Assam. He also criticised the previous Congress government, stating that the development of Assam and the wider Northeast had not been a priority earlier.

The new terminal is expected to handle more than 13 million passengers annually, making it the largest airport terminal in Northeast India. Officials said the total project cost stands at Rs 50 billion, which includes Rs 10 billion earmarked for maintenance, repair and overhaul facilities. The airport is envisaged as a major aviation hub for the region and a key gateway connecting Northeast India with Southeast Asia.

Developed by Adani Airports Holdings Limited, the terminal incorporates bamboo and orchid-inspired design elements to reflect Assam’s natural and cultural heritage. Officials noted that the project required close coordination between the central and state governments. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had earlier approved Rs 1.162 billion for the expansion of approach roads to the terminal and reviewed the supporting infrastructure works.

Ahead of the inauguration, Modi shared a preview of the terminal on Friday, describing it as a major boost to Assam’s infrastructure. In a post on X, he said the expanded capacity would help raise living standards while supporting trade, tourism and regional connectivity.