“Modern Airport Will Accelerate Connectivity, Trade and Tourism in Kota and Nearby Districts,” Says Prime Minister
BuzzBytes
New Delhi, March 7:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday laid the foundation stone of the Kota Airport project through a video address, describing it as a major step towards strengthening connectivity and accelerating economic growth in Rajasthan’s Hadoti region.
Addressing the ceremony, the Prime Minister said the new airport, being built at an estimated cost of around ₹1,500 crore, will provide new momentum to the development of Kota and neighbouring districts including Bundi, Baran and Jhalawar.
“Rajasthan is progressing at an unprecedented pace, and this modern airport will become a catalyst for economic and industrial growth in the region,” Modi said.
He noted that the project fulfils a promise made during his visit to Kota in November 2023 and will significantly improve connectivity for residents and businesses.
“When this airport becomes operational, people will no longer have to travel to Jaipur or Jodhpur to catch flights. Travel will become easier and trade will grow rapidly in the entire region,” the Prime Minister said.
Highlighting the unique identity of Kota, Modi said the city has emerged as an important centre of education and energy production.
“Kota is a unique hub where electricity is generated through nuclear, coal, gas and hydro sources. It is also globally known for Kota Doria sarees, Kota stone and agricultural products like Bundi’s Basmati rice,” he said, adding that improved air connectivity will expand market opportunities for local products.
The Prime Minister also underlined the tourism potential of the region, citing important religious and natural attractions.
“Places such as Shri Mathuradhish Ji, Garadia Mahadev and wildlife destinations like Mukundara Hills have immense tourism potential. Enhanced air connectivity will attract visitors from across the country and the world,” he said.
Modi further highlighted the rapid improvement in connectivity infrastructure in Kota, pointing to the modernization of railway stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme.
“Under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, both major railway stations of Kota are being equipped with modern facilities,” he said.
The Prime Minister also referred to the impact of major road infrastructure projects such as the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, which is expected to strengthen industrial and logistics connectivity across the region.
“Kota is today advancing rapidly in the field of connectivity. With rail, road and now air connectivity, development in the region will gain even greater momentum,” he said.
Acknowledging the role of local leadership, the Prime Minister praised Om Birla, the Member of Parliament from Kota and Speaker of the Lok Sabha, for his efforts in advancing the region’s development.
Modi also highlighted the broader transformation of India’s aviation sector over the past decade.
“The number of airports in the country has increased from about 70 in 2014 to more than 160 today,” he said, adding that the expansion of aviation infrastructure is helping bring development to smaller cities and regions.
Concluding his address, the Prime Minister said the new airport will strengthen the foundation of a developed Rajasthan and contribute to the larger vision of a developed India.
“This strong foundation of a developed Rajasthan is giving greater strength to the resolve of building a developed India,” Modi said.
