In a decisive move to bolster Punjab's economic and industrial growth, Amarinder Singh Raja Warring, Member of Parliament from Ludhiana, and Dr. Amar Singh, Member of Parliament from Fatehgarh Sahib, have formally addressed the Minister of Civil Aviation, Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, urging immediate action towards the operationalization of the international civil terminal at Halwara in Ludhiana district.
The transformation of the Indian Air Force station at Halwara into an international civil terminal has been a highly anticipated project aimed at enhancing Ludhiana's connectivity, both domestically and internationally. Despite substantial progress in infrastructure development, the project has faced multiple delays, with the latest deadline being July 31, 2024.
Amarinder Singh Raja Warring emphasized the urgency of the matter, stating, "Ludhiana, as the economic hub of Punjab and North India, has been in dire need of enhanced air connectivity to support its thriving industries. The operationalization of Halwara airport is not just about improved travel convenience; it is a critical step towards sustaining and accelerating our region's economic growth."
The letter highlighted the completion of various key infrastructures such as internal roads, public health services, campus lighting, terminal building, substation, toilet blocks, and parking facilities. However, crucial works on the apron and taxiway within the Indian Air Force campus remain pending. The coordination and clearance issues with the Indian Air Force demand the personal attention of the Civil Aviation Minister to ensure timely completion.
Warring further added, "With the Halwara airport operational, the Punjabi diaspora will no longer face the inconvenience of traveling to international airports outside the state. This will make travel significantly more accessible and convenient for our people."
In their appeal, they also supported the Punjab Government's proposal to name the Halwara airport after the great freedom fighter, martyr S. Kartar Singh Sarabha, given the proximity of Halwara to Sarabha village, where the martyr hailed from."The naming of the airport after S. Kartar Singh Sarabha is a fitting tribute to our freedom fighters and will serve as a constant reminder of their sacrifices," Warring remarked.
Amarinder Singh Raja Warring and Dr. Amar Singh have called upon the Civil Aviation Minister to take a personal interest in this matter, emphasizing that the operationalization of the Halwara international terminal will usher in a new era of economic prosperity for Punjab.