Uttar Pradesh: PM Modi inaugurates Kushinagar International Airport

PM Modi launched Kushinagar International Airport today. The first flight from Sri Lanka landed at the airport marking the launch of a new international airport in UP.

The Kushinagar International Airport is at the site of Lord Buddha’s Parinirvana in Uttar Pradesh. The inaugural flight from Sri Lanka carried a Sri Lankan delegation of over 100 Buddhist monks and holy Buddha relics for exposition. It also comprised anunayakas which are deputy heads of all four nikatas (orders) of Buddhism in Sri Lanka.

Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, UP’s Governor Anandiben Patel, CM Yogi Adityanath were also present at the event.

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PM Modi said that Kushinagar International Airport is the result of decades of hopes & expectations. My happiness is two-fold today. As curious about the spiritual journey, I have a sense of satisfaction. As a representative of the Purvanchal area, it is time for the fulfilment of a commitment. 

He further added that India is the centre of the faith of Buddhist society around the world. Today this facility of Kushinagar International Airport is a tribute to the Buddhist community as the holy city of Kushinagar has witnessed the entire journey from the enlightenment of Lord Buddha to Mahaparinirvana. Today this region is directly connected to the world.

In his long speech, he further said that Kushinagar International Airport won’t just be the mode of air connectivity. Be it farmers, animal keepers, shopkeepers, workers, local industrialists-it’ll benefit all. It’ll create an ecosystem of business. Tourism will get maximum benefit, it’ll generate employment for youth here.

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Importance of Kushinagar International Airport 

• The Kushinagar Airport will handle 300 passengers during peak hours.
• The runway is 3,200 meters long and 45 meters wide which is perfect for the landing of big aircraft.
• The airport at Kushinagar will help to develop Kushinagar as one of the four religious tourist places of Buddhist pilgrimage. It will boost the economic development of the whole region.
• It will develop the hospitality industry like hotel business, tourism agencies, restaurants and give more job opportunities to locals.
• The airport will also help other businesses with horticultural products like bananas, strawberries, and mushrooms.