Darjeeling MP Raju Bista today reviewed preparedness of the Bagdogra Airport for the visit of G20 delegates who would be visiting Darjeeling, Siliguri and Sikkim for major G20 programmes to be hosted by the region in April. “It is a matter of great pride that our Darjeeling, Siliguri, Sikkim region will be hosting major G20 programmes in April, where international delegates from across the world will be participating.

It is important to ensure the smooth operations of Bagdogra Airport,” Mr Bista said after attending the Airport Advisory Committee Meeting on the airport premises here today. “I therefore sought information on the preparedness of the Airport authorities towards the expected inflow of G20 delegates, and additional tourists who will be coming during the tourist season.

I also inquired about the facilities that are currently in place, and the steps taken by the airport authorities to address the over-crowding problem seen during the tourist season,” Mr Bista said. Bagdogra is the only functional civilian airport in North Bengalm and around 7500- 8000 passengers use the airport on a daily basis. “The Central Govt under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi ji and Hon’ble Civil Aviation Minister Sh. Jyotiraditya Scindia ji has allocated Rs 1884 crore towards the redevelopment of Bagdogra Airport.

The design of the new complex of the airport has already been completed, and work is on for Engineering, Procurement, and construction (EPC) work is expected to begin very soon. Once started, the construction will be completed within 24 months. When completed, Bagdogra will become the first international airport in our region. This will help cement our region as the hub of international travel, tourism and trade,” he added. “Bagdogra Airport Director Sh. Mohammad Arif informed me that the airport authorities are working towards improving facilities at the airport and beautification of the airport and surrounding areas to welcome the G20 delegates.

He also informed me that all issues and concerns raised during today’s meeting will be addressed on a priority basis,” the MP further said. The meeting was also attended by Matigara-Naxalbari MLA Anandmay Barman, under whose constituency Bagdogra falls, other Airport Advisory Committee members, representatives from the Air Force, representatives of various airlines, and CISF officers.