In a significant boost to infrastructure and trade, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the integrated terminal building at Surat International Airport and the Surat Diamond Exchange, marking a new chapter in the city’s development. The inauguration ceremony was attended by several dignitaries including Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Union Minister Darshana Jardosh, and other prominent leaders.
The newly inaugurated terminal building is set to enhance the ‘Ease of Living’ for residents and ensure smoother commerce for Surat and its surrounding areas. With the capacity to accommodate 1,200 domestic and 600 international passengers during peak hours, the terminal is equipped with provisions for further expansion to cater to the growing demand. Once fully operational, the airport’s annual handling capacity is projected to rise to 55 lakh passengers, effectively tripling its current capacity.
A key decision by the Union Cabinet to designate Surat Airport as an international airport underscores its pivotal role in facilitating global travel and seamless export-import operations, particularly for the thriving diamond and textile industries in the region. The move is expected to bolster trade and economic growth, positioning Surat as a key player on the international stage.
In addition to its state-of-the-art facilities, the Surat Airport boasts sustainable features such as solar power plants, rainwater harvesting systems, and low-heat-reach double glazing units, aligning with India’s commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development.
Parallel to the inauguration of the terminal, PM Modi unveiled the Surat Diamond Exchange, hailed as the world’s largest workspace for the diamond industry. This cutting-edge facility will serve as a global hub for trading both rough and polished diamonds, as well as jewelry, offering a comprehensive range of services including customs clearance, retail jewelry outlets, and banking facilities.
The inauguration of these landmark projects underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure, promoting trade, and fostering economic growth across the country. PM Modi’s visit to Surat culminates with his participation in the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra in Varanasi, further emphasizing the government’s dedication to the holistic development of India.
As Surat emerges as a key economic and trade hub, the integrated terminal and diamond exchange are poised to propel the city’s growth trajectory, ushering in a new era of prosperity and opportunities for its residents and businesses alike.
