Lakshadweep has garnered global attention following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit. Amidst renewed controversies involving the Maldives, interest in this island destination has spiked significantly. A nationwide campaign advocating visits to Lakshadweep has gained momentum, drawing not just Bollywood and cricket luminaries but also political figures.
However, as enthusiasm for the campaign grows, concerns about Lakshadweep's infrastructure persist. A primary concern is the absence of a direct route for tourists to reach this Union Territory, which currently lacks an international airport. While small heliports and airports like Agathi and Bankaram exist, flights only operate from Kochi's Nedumbassery airport.
Against this backdrop of controversies, attention has shifted back to the Agathi International Airport project. The central government initiated the Agatti State-of-the-Art Airport Project with the aim of elevating Lakshadweep into an international tourism hotspot. Work on this project, which commenced in 2018, is underway.
The decision to develop Agathi airport was made during a meeting of the Public Investment Board in September 2018. The airport has been designed to accommodate ATR-72 aircraft. A study report by Atlas Management Consultancy Service, submitted to authorities last December, detailed aspects such as land acquisition and potential environmental alterations. Following the Prime Minister's visit, national media outlets have reported an acceleration in the project's completion.
Sources indicate that the state-of-the-art airport is slated to be operational by March 31, 2026. With a focus on promoting island tourism, the Central government is giving significant attention to Lakshadweep, suggesting the project will materialize soon. The Prime Minister's visit has notably driven a surge in tourist interest in exploring Lakshadweep.
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