The people’s representatives of Siddharthanagar Municipality have strongly urged the federal government to expedite the operation of the long-awaited Gautam Buddha International Airport (GBIA). Speaking at the inauguration of the municipality’s newly constructed administrative building on Monday, local leaders emphasized the importance of activating the airport, which has remained non-operational despite years of investment and construction.
Calls for Swift Government Action
During the event, the Mayor of Siddharthanagar Municipality, Ishtiyak Ahamad Khan, highlighted the strategic and economic significance of the airport. “The airport, which was built with an investment of billions of rupees, should be brought into operation without further delay,” Mayor Khan said. He expressed optimism that the functioning of the airport would enhance the economic vitality of the region and boost national development efforts.
The Mayor of Siddharthanagar also stressed that the airport’s operation would significantly support tourism in Rupandehi and the surrounding areas. “This is not just about Bhairahawa. Running the airport will increase tourist arrivals, promote investment, and contribute to broader development projects across the nation,” he added. The Mayor of Siddharthanagar municipality Khan’s comments reflect growing anticipation among local stakeholders who have long awaited the benefits promised by this international gateway.
Impact on Local Businesses and Industry of Siddharthanagar
Spokesperson of Siddharthanagar Municipality, Muktinath Yadav, further highlighted the economic difficulties faced by the region due to the airport’s inactivity. He pointed out that industrialists and businesspeople in Rupandehi have suffered due to the lack of commercial flights, which has limited connectivity and hindered trade opportunities. “Businesses have been unable to reach markets efficiently, and investors have been discouraged,” Yadav said, underlining the urgency of operationalizing the airport.
Local entrepreneurs also echoed these concerns, noting that the timely operation of the airport could attract both domestic and international investors, creating jobs and stimulating the local economy. “Our industries are ready to expand, but connectivity remains a critical barrier,” said a prominent local business owner. The airport, once operational, is expected to reduce travel time to international destinations, improve cargo transport, and foster a competitive business environment.
Tourism Potential and Regional Development
Experts suggest that activating Gautam Buddha International Airport would play a vital role in boosting Nepal’s tourism sector. Rupandehi, being close to the birthplace of Gautam Buddha, is a key destination for both domestic and international pilgrims. Tourism stakeholders believe that the airport will make the region more accessible, facilitating easier travel for tourists and promoting cultural and heritage tourism.
In addition to tourism, the airport is projected to support regional development by improving infrastructure and connectivity. Economists emphasize that transportation hubs, such as international airports, serve as catalysts for economic growth, enhancing trade, investment, and service sectors. The airport’s functioning is expected to encourage hotel development, transportation services, and other ancillary industries, generating employment opportunities for local communities.
Government Response and Next Steps
While local representatives continue to advocate for the airport’s immediate operation, government authorities have yet to provide a definitive timeline. Officials have cited technical, operational, and administrative challenges that must be resolved before commercial flights can commence. However, Mayor Khan and other municipal leaders have stressed that these hurdles must be addressed promptly to avoid further economic setbacks for the region.
The push for airport activation also aligns with broader national objectives of promoting Nepal as a tourism hub and enhancing infrastructure connectivity. Federal policymakers are reportedly reviewing strategies to ensure the airport meets international operational standards while providing seamless services for passengers and cargo.
The call from Siddharthanagar’s representatives underscores the region’s readiness and eagerness to leverage the Gautam Buddha International Airport for economic and social development. Both local officials and community stakeholders emphasize that operationalizing the airport is no longer a luxury but a necessity for the economic prosperity of Rupandehi and Nepal as a whole. With strong advocacy from municipal leaders like Mayor Khan and proactive engagement from business communities, the hope is that the airport will soon become a fully functional gateway, boosting tourism, trade, and national development.
