Prime Minister Modi Unveils New Trichy Airport Terminal and Initiates ₹20,000 Crore Worth of Projects

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for a series of development projects amounting to over ₹20,000 crore in Tamil Nadu's Tiruchirappalli on Tuesday. The projects spanned various sectors, including aviation, rail, road, oil and gas, shipping, and higher education.

One of the key highlights of the event was the inauguration of the new terminal building at Tiruchirappalli International Airport, built at a cost exceeding ₹1100 crore. This two-level terminal has the capacity to accommodate over 44 lakh passengers annually, with a capability of serving about 3,500 passengers during peak hours, as per the Prime Minister's Office.

Addressing the audience, PM Modi expressed his wish for a peaceful and prosperous 2024 and acknowledged the significance of initiating development projects worth nearly ₹20,000 crore in Tamil Nadu. He extended his congratulations for the progress brought about by these projects.

While acknowledging the recent challenges faced by the people of Tamil Nadu due to heavy rainfall and floods in the final weeks of 2023, the Prime Minister conveyed his condolences for the lives lost and assured the state of the central government's unwavering support during this crisis.

Upon his arrival in Tiruchirappalli, PM Modi was welcomed by Chief Minister MK Stalin and Governor RN Ravi. The Prime Minister also participated in the 38th Convocation Ceremony of Bharathidasan University, where he quoted Tamil verses from poet Bharathidasan, the university's namesake, emphasizing the creation of a brave new world.

During his speech, PM Modi praised Indian youth for their contributions to global initiatives such as Chandrayaan-3, and highlighted the remarkable increase in patents from around 4,000 in 2014 to almost 50,000 presently, showcasing the country's progress in innovation.

The Prime Minister's visit to southern states, including Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and the Union Territory of Lakshadweep, from January 2-3, aims to engage with local leaders, inaugurate key projects, and strengthen ties with the regions.

HINDUSTAN TIMES