Senior bureaucrats and officials were on high alert throughout Saturday, making final preparations for the inauguration of Halwara Airport, set to take place on Sunday. The event is expected to draw nearly 1,000 attendees from across the political spectrum, highlighting its significance in Punjab’s socio-economic landscape.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the airport virtually from Jalandhar, while Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Union Minister for Civil Aviation Rammohan Naidu Kinjarapu will be present at the site along with other dignitaries. The ceremony is scheduled for 4 PM, marking a pivotal moment in the state’s infrastructure development.
Political Gathering at Halwara
The inauguration will see participation from various political leaders, including state Congress president Amrinder Singh Raja Warring, indicating a rare moment of unity among political adversaries. According to an official, the “entire state machinery” has been mobilized to ensure the event’s success, with a waterproof pandal set up to accommodate the guests.
“Tomorrow’s event is likely to be witnessed by 1,000 persons from all political parties. CM Mann has confirmed his visit to Halwara ahead of the inauguration by the PM, which is expected to be around 3:30 PM to 4 PM,” the official stated.
Economic Hopes and Industry Expectations
As the Prime Minister’s visit to Punjab approaches, local industrialists are hopeful for a central financial package to rejuvenate the state’s industries. Badish Jindal, president of World MSME, expressed optimism, saying, “If not tomorrow, then maybe during the visit of Amit Shah in Punjab in February. We hope that a good package will be given to the industry in Punjab for revival.”
Pankaj Sharma, president of the ATIU, echoed these sentiments, noting that with state elections just a year away, the industry anticipates significant support. “Since the state polls are just a year away, industry hopes to get a good package,” he said.
Local Residents’ Aspirations
Vikram Kanwar, a local resident, shared the community’s desire for the commencement of flights from the new airport. “We want the flights to start soon from the airport,” he remarked, reflecting the broader public sentiment.
Commercial Flights and Economic Impact
According to sources, commercial flight operations are expected to begin at Halwara Airport in March, with formal announcements anticipated from the Chief Minister during the inauguration. Air India has reportedly secured the necessary permissions from the Indian Air Force to initiate operations.
Union Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu Kinjarapu highlighted the collaborative effort between the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and the Punjab Government in developing the Halwara terminal at a cost of Rs 54.67 crore. “The operationalisation of the Halwara airport will significantly improve air connectivity in Punjab’s Malwa region,” Naidu stated.
“The airport will boost trade, industry, tourism, healthcare and education, and contribute meaningfully to the overall socio-economic development of Punjab,” he added.
Strategic Infrastructure Development
The Halwara airport is designed to meet the growing regional air travel demand and is equipped to handle Code C aircraft, including Airbus A321 and Boeing 737. Punjab Minister Sanjeev Arora emphasized the airport’s potential to transform Ludhiana’s export-driven economy. “This will drastically cut travel time for industry and exporters, improve connectivity and strengthen Punjab’s position as a manufacturing and investment hub,” he said.
The inauguration of Halwara Airport not only marks a significant milestone in Punjab’s infrastructure development but also sets the stage for future economic growth and political collaboration. As the state gears up for this landmark event, the eyes of the nation will be on Halwara, watching how this new development unfolds and what it promises for Punjab’s future.
