Photo Source: Babushahi Bureau
Relentless pursuit by Sanjeev Arora ends 30-year wait as Halwara Airport becomes operational
Babushahi Bureau
Ludhiana (Punjab), January 31, 2026:After nearly three decades of delay, Halwara Airport has finally been operationalised, marking a major milestone for Punjab’s regional connectivity. The breakthrough has been achieved due to the sustained and determined efforts of Punjab Cabinet Minister and former Rajya Sabha MP Sanjeev Arora, whose consistent follow-up across multiple levels of government paved the way for the project’s completion. The terminal building was virtually inaugurated by Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on Sunday.
The operationalisation of Halwara Airport stands as a testament to Sanjeev Arora’s unwavering commitment to Ludhiana and adjoining districts. Through persistent engagement with the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Airports Authority of India (AAI), the Indian Air Force, airline operators, and the Punjab Government, Arora ensured that the long-pending project moved from files to the runway.
As part of the final push, Air India has received the necessary permissions from the Indian Air Force and is set to commence flight operations from the first week of March 2026, initially operating multiple flights a week with scope for expansion.
Consistent Follow-up Brought Results
From 2022 onwards, Sanjeev Arora took up the issue at every critical stage—securing release of funds, pressing for construction deadlines, coordinating with airlines, and ensuring regulatory clearances. His efforts included repeated communications with the Civil Aviation Ministry, meetings with Air India and Tata Sons leadership, on-site reviews with AAI and Air Force officials, and coordination with district authorities to resolve last-mile issues.
The airport received its HWR code in February 2025, final security clearance from BCAS in January 2026, and confirmation from the Prime Minister’s Office for inauguration shortly thereafter—bringing the project to fruition.
The operational Halwara Airport is expected to significantly cut travel time for passengers and industry, while giving a strong push to Punjab’s industrial, export, and investment ecosystem, especially benefiting Ludhiana, one of North India’s largest manufacturing hubs. The terminal, spread over 2,000 square metres, is designed to handle around 2,500 passengers daily.
Under the guidance of AAP National Convener Shri Arvind Kejriwal and Chief Minister Shri Bhagwant Singh Mann, Sanjeev Arora’s focused leadership and persistence ensured that this long-delayed infrastructure project finally took off—transforming regional air connectivity in Punjab.
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