In the presence of the Union Minister of Civil Aviation and Steel, Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, the Lt. Governor of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Admiral D. K. Joshi, the MoS for the Ministry of Civil Aviation, and Shri Rajiv Bansal, the Secretary, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi officially opened the new integrated terminal building at Veer Savarkar International Airport. The new terminal building of the airport is capable of handling 1200 people during peak hours, which is more than three times the current capacity, and was constructed at a cost of Rs. 710 Crore on a 40,837 square meter space. The Port Blair Terminal building is an oyster-shaped structure that symbolizes the beauty of the water and the island. It was designed in response to the rich biodiversity of the scenic islands. The terminal building has been constructed so that it receives all of its natural lighting during the day. At the airport, a statue honoring the liberation fighter Veer Savarkar has also been constructed. The event was managed using a mixed approach. While other dignitaries were present at the airport, the prime minister opened the terminal building by pressing a remote control during a video conference. The statue of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar (also known as Veer Savarkar) was unveiled inside the airport's grounds by Minister of Civil Aviation and Steel Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, MoS Gen. Vijay Kumar (Retd), and other dignitaries as a tribute to the great liberation fighter. Speaking on the occasion, Minister of Civil Aviation and Steel, Shri Jyotiraditya M. 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.” He further said “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 Govt. of India with the investment of Rs. 150 crores. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, we are dedicated to the sewa, sushashan and garib kalyan. In the coming time, this airport will be the gateway to employment, education, and investment.” Port Blair Airport, also known as Veer Savarkar International Airport, is situated two kilometers (km) south of Port Blair in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. It is the only commercial airport in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands and is named for the renowned independence warrior Vinayak Damodar Savarkar. The tranquil Andaman & Nicobar Islands' capital is Port Blair. The gateway to more than 500 unspoiled islands is Port Blair, which is situated on the east coast of South Andaman Island. Along with housing Andaman & Nicobar Islands government institutions, it is a thriving commercial center. Scuba diving, snorkeling, sea cruises, and glimpses of the local history and culture are all available in Port Blair. See also: PM to inaugurate Integrated Terminal Building at Port Blair Airport New terminal building of Patna airport to be ready by next year