The Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] organised a bike rally in Visakhapatnam to protest the proposed closure of the existing Visakhapatnam Airport for domestic flight operations after the commissioning of the upcoming Bhogapuram International Airport. The rally was held to urge the government to retain the existing airport as a domestic aviation hub while allowing international operations to shift to Bhogapuram.

 

The rally commenced from Jagadamba Junction and concluded at Maddilapalem, with party leaders stating that shutting down the city's existing airport would cause inconvenience to passengers and adversely affect sectors such as tourism, trade, hospitality, and transportation. They argued that retaining domestic flight services at the current airport would ensure better connectivity for residents and business travellers.

 

CPI(M) leaders expressed concerns that relocating all commercial flight operations to Bhogapuram would increase travel time and transportation costs, particularly for residents of northern Visakhapatnam and neighbouring districts. They also urged the government to adopt a dual-airport model, similar to arrangements seen in other cities, allowing both airports to function simultaneously for different categories of flights.

 

The party reiterated its demand that the existing airport should continue operating for domestic services, stating that such a decision would balance infrastructure development with public convenience while supporting the city's economic growth.