The new bamboo-inspired terminal at Guwahati Airport opens after a record-fast build, signalling India’s push for sustainable, future-ready aviation infrastructure.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated the new terminal at Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (LGBIA) in Guwahati, marking one of India’s fastest airport infrastructure deliveries from concept to commissioning in under a year. Operations are expected to begin by the end of February 2026.
The terminal’s design was first unveiled by the Prime Minister at Advantage Assam 2.0 in February. Its completion within compressed timelines reflects India’s growing capability to deliver large-scale aviation projects at speed while maintaining operational readiness. A comprehensive Operational Readiness and Airport Transfer (ORAT) programme, supported by experts from Munich, has ensured systems, processes and passenger flows are fully tested for a seamless opening.
C: Adani Airport Holdings Ltd.[/caption] Nature-inspired architecture with regional identity
Named The Bamboo Orchids, the terminal draws inspiration from Assam’s kopou phool (foxtail orchid) and indigenous bamboo species such as Bholuka and Apatani. Around 140 metric tonnes of locally sourced bamboo have been used, making it one of India’s most prominent examples of sustainable airport architecture. The design combines natural materials, daylight optimisation and modern engineering to reflect the ecological and cultural richness of the Northeast.
Adani Group’s integrated approach
Developed by Guwahati International Airport Limited and operated by Adani Airport Holdings Limited (AAHL), the project demonstrates the Adani Group’s ability to integrate design excellence, engineering capability and ORAT-led preparedness. This milestone follows the imminent launch of Navi Mumbai International Airport on 25 December, reinforcing AAHL’s execution momentum across India’s aviation network.
C: Adani Airport Holdings Ltd.[/caption] Passenger experience and capacity
Equipped with DigiYatra-enabled processing, smart check-in systems and expansive passenger areas, the terminal is designed to handle 13.1 million passengers annually by 2032. Guwahati Airport currently ranks as India’s 10th busiest, handling 6.5 million passengers in FY 2024–25 and serving as a critical hub for all eight Northeastern states.
Investment and regional impact
The overall development represents an investment of ₹5,000 crore, including ₹1,000 crore for Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facilities. Planned cargo infrastructure will strengthen trade and logistics, supporting economic growth and employment across the region.
Speaking at the inauguration, Prime Minister Modi described the terminal as part of a wider Vikas ka Utsav in Assam, positioning the state as India’s eastern gateway under the Act East policy. Gautam Adani, Chairman of Adani Group, added: “The Guwahati terminal demonstrates how world-class airport infrastructure can be delivered swiftly while remaining deeply rooted in local identity.”
These developments underline India’s evolving aviation landscape, where speed, sustainability and operational excellence converge to create future-ready gateways for growth.
C: Adani Airport Holdings Ltd.[/caption] 
