Nagpur Airport Expansion to Boost Central India’s Growth: Gadkari
Modernised airport to strengthen trade, logistics, tourism and global connectivity across Vidarbha
GG News Bureau
Nagpur, 26th June: Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Thursday said the modernisation and expansion of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport in Nagpur will transform the city into a major economic hub for Central India by improving connectivity, attracting investments and generating employment.
Speaking at the formal handover of the airport to the GMR Group under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, Gadkari said Nagpur’s strategic location at the geographical centre of India positions it as a key hub for trade, logistics, manufacturing and multimodal transport.
The event was attended by Union Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, MPs Shyamkumar Barve and Praful Patel, and other dignitaries.
Gadkari said the upgraded airport would accelerate the growth of tourism, mining, agriculture and export-oriented industries across the Vidarbha region by improving passenger and cargo connectivity.
He urged the Civil Aviation Ministry to facilitate direct international flights from Nagpur to destinations such as Singapore and Dubai, stating that global connectivity would enhance trade, tourism, investment and business opportunities for the region.
The Union Minister also suggested promoting Nagpur’s famous Orange Barfi and other local products at the airport to showcase the cultural identity and entrepreneurial strength of Vidarbha.
During the programme, Gadkari, Naidu and Fadnavis unveiled the airport’s new logo, marking the beginning of a new phase in its development.
The expansion plan includes modern cargo facilities, Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) infrastructure and upgraded passenger amenities, which are expected to strengthen Nagpur’s emergence as an airport-led logistics and industrial hub.
Gadkari credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu for supporting world-class infrastructure development and said the airport’s expansion would significantly improve regional connectivity and economic development across Central India.
