India has achieved a major infrastructure milestone with the inauguration of India’s first nature-themed airport terminal in Guwahati. The Prime Minister of India has inaugurated the new Terminal 2 building at Lokapriya Gopinath Bardoloi International Airport, Guwahati. This nature-themed new terminal at the LGBI Airport, Guwahati reflects a powerful blend of modern connectivity, cultural identity, and sustainable design.
A Landmark Infrastructure Project for Assam:
With the commissioning of the new integrated terminal, Guwahati airport’s capacity has increased significantly. The terminal is designed to handle over 1.25-1.3 crore passengers annually, easing congestion and improving passenger movement.
As a result, Guwahati is strengthening its position as a major aviation hub and an eastern gateway of India.
Moreover, the terminal spans nearly 1.4 lakh square metres and is supported by major upgrades such as runways, airfield systems, aprons and taxiways.
Together, these upgrades ensure smoother operations and enhanced travel efficiency.
India’s First Nature-Themed Airport – Bamboo Orchid Design:
What truly sets this terminal apart is its nature inspired architectural concept. It is the first airport terminal in India built on a nature themed design. Built at the cost of 4,000 crore, it is centred around the bamboo orchid – a symbol of Assam’s ecology and culture.
Key design highlights include:
- Extensive indoor greenery resembling an indoor forest.
- Use of bamboo, reflecting strength, sustainability, and local heritage.
- Open, calming spaces that promote peace and comfort for passengers.
Consequently, every traveller experiences the essence of Assam’s natural beauty the moment they step inside the terminal.
‘Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi’: Culture Meets Development:
During the inauguration, the Prime Minister emphasised the relevance of the mantra “Vikas bhi, virasat bhi” – Development along with heritage. The terminal design seamlessly integrates Assam’s cultural identity with world-class infrastructure.
In addition, the terminal will make it easier for tourists to explore Assam, devotees to visit Maa Kamakhya, international travellers to access other states in Northeast India.
Thus, the airport strengthens both tourism and spiritual connectivity.
Boost to Tourism, Trade, and Employment:
Modern airports act as engines of economic development and Guwahati’s new terminal is no exception. Improved air connectivity will have the following impacts:
- Boosts tourism across Assam and the Northeast.
- Attracts investors by enhancing logistical confidence.
- Enables local products to reach global markets.
More importantly, it creates new employment opportunities, especially for the youth. Therefore, the terminal stands as a symbol of aspiration, opportunity, and economic momentum.
Guwahati as India’s Eastern Gateway to ASEAN:
The Prime Minister highlighted that Assam is emerging as India’s eastern gateway and a vital bridge connecting ASEAN countries. Improved airport infrastructure plays a crucial role in strengthening this strategic vision.
As connectivity improves, Guwahati will increasingly serve as a regional aviation hub, a centre for trade and business expansion and a launchpad for Northeast India’s global engagement.
Statue of Gopinath Bordoloi – Honouring Assam’s Legacy:
As part of the inauguration, the Prime Minister unveiled an 80-foot statue of Gopinath Bordoloi on the airport premises. This tribute honours Assam’s first Chief Minister and reinforces the airport’s identity as a space where history, leadership, and progress converge.
India’s Expanding Aviation Network:
Over the last 11 years, the number of airports in India has increased from 76 to 165. This expansion reflects the government’s focus on strengthening regional connectivity. At present, there are 9 airports in Assam. Among them, one is an international airport, two are military airports and the other six airports are domestic airports. Airports are no longer just travel facilities, they are catalysts of economic growth, drivers of tourism and industry and pillars of public confidence and development.
Conclusion:
The new nature-themed terminal at Guwahati airport stands as a powerful symbol of Assam’s ambitions, Northeast India’s opportunities, and India’s bright future. By combining sustainability, cultural pride, and modern infrastructure, the terminal sets a new benchmark for airport development in India. Ultimately, it reinforces Guwahati’s role as a gateway to growth – both for the Northeast and the nation as a whole.
Sources:
- https://www.timesnownews.com/india/pm-narendra-modi-inaugurates-new-terminal-guwahati-lokapriya-gopinath-bardoloi-international-airport-india-first-nature-themed-airport-in-photos-photo-gallery-153324139/2
- https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-inaugurates-new-terminal-building-of-lokapriya-gopinath-bardoloi-international-airport-in-guwahati-assam/?comment=disable
Also read :
India’s first nature-themed airport terminal is Terminal 2 of Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, inaugurated in Guwahati, Assam.
The terminal features a bamboo orchid–inspired, nature-themed architecture with indoor greenery, bamboo structures, and calming spaces reflecting Assam’s ecology and culture.
The new terminal is designed to handle over 1.25–1.3 crore passengers annually, significantly easing congestion and improving air connectivity in Northeast India.
It boosts tourism, trade, investment, and employment, strengthens Assam’s role as an eastern gateway, and helps local products access global markets.
Guwahati serves as India’s eastern gateway, enhancing air connectivity with Southeast Asia and supporting India’s strategic engagement with ASEAN countries.
