The Ghulatis On The Go embarked on a journey from Jalandhar, heading towards Ludhiana with a specific destination in mind: the Halwara International Airport. The purpose of this trip was to document the route to the new airport, which was virtually inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 1, 2026. The team aimed to provide viewers with a firsthand look at the progress and accessibility of the airport, especially in light of news that commercial flights were expected to commence in the first week of March 2026.
Ludhiana, a significant industrial hub in Punjab and a major city in India, has long felt the need for a dedicated airport. The establishment of Halwara International Airport is a response to this long-standing demand, promising to enhance connectivity for the region. The journey began with the Ghulatis crossing the Ladowal Toll Barrier, a familiar landmark on the Jalandhar-Ludhiana GT Road, before turning onto the South City Road, which serves as a bypass for Ludhiana.
The South City Bypass and Local Developments
The drive along the South City bypass revealed a well-maintained road, offering a smooth experience. The bypass is a crucial artery for navigating around Ludhiana, connecting various parts of the city and its outskirts. Along this route, the Ghulatis observed several ongoing developments, indicating the rapid growth and expansion of Ludhiana.
One notable development encountered was the Rajgarh Estates, a large residential colony that exuded a royal ambiance. The entrance to Rajgarh Estates, with its grand archway and meticulously landscaped surroundings, suggested a high-end living experience. The presence of such developments highlights the increasing real estate activity in the region, driven by improved infrastructure and connectivity.
Transition to Sidhwan Canal Road
After traversing the South City bypass, the Ghulatis transitioned to the Sidhwan Canal Road. This road, though initially showing some signs of wear and tear with damaged sections, soon improved, offering a pleasant drive alongside the canal. The canal road is characterized by lush greenery and a serene environment, providing a contrast to the bustling city areas.
Further along the Sidhwan Canal Road, more real estate projects were visible, including Omaxe New Ludhiana. These developments, often featuring their own bridges over the canal, are transforming the landscape, indicating a strategic expansion of residential and commercial zones. The canal road, therefore, is not just a scenic route but also a corridor of significant urban development.
The Final Stretch to Halwara Airport
The journey continued towards Mullanpur Dakha, where the Ghulatis turned left onto the Jagraon Road. This road, which connects Ludhiana directly to the airport, is a key access point for those traveling from the city. The Jagraon Road, while being a main thoroughfare, presented a more congested environment with local traffic and commercial establishments lining its sides.
Upon reaching the final turn-off for Halwara Airport, a sign board clearly indicated the direction. From this point, the airport was approximately four kilometers away. The road leading directly to the airport was a village road, which, despite its rural classification, was in good condition. It was noted that no new four-lane or six-lane highway had been constructed for the airport; rather, the existing village road had been maintained and utilized.
Arrival at Halwara International Airport
The Ghulatis arrived at the entrance of Halwara International Airport, marked by closed gates and a security checkpoint. The security staff confirmed that entry was not permitted inside the airport premises at the time of the visit. However, from outside the gates, the terminal building and runways were visible, appearing to be complete.
According to the security staff, commercial flights were anticipated to begin in the first week of March 2026. Despite the completion of the terminal and runways, there was no staff present inside the airport, and some landscaping work was still pending. The overall impression was that the airport was structurally ready but awaiting its full operational launch.
Practical Takeaways
For travelers planning to use Halwara International Airport, several practical points emerge from this journey. The airport is approximately 32 kilometers from Ludhiana city, with the drive taking about 50 minutes from the Ladowal Toll Barrier and an estimated 20-25 minutes from Ludhiana city center to the airport turn-off. The route involves navigating both well-maintained bypass roads and local village roads, which are generally in good condition.
The surrounding areas are experiencing significant real estate development, suggesting future growth and increased amenities. While the airport infrastructure appears complete, travelers should verify the exact commencement date of commercial flights and any specific entry requirements. The current road infrastructure, primarily utilizing existing routes, means that while accessible, it is not a high-speed highway directly to the terminal. This journey provides a valuable snapshot of the airport's readiness and the evolving landscape of Ludhiana's connectivity.
Watch the Original Journey
This article is connected to the original Ghulatis On The Go video below. Watch it for the complete visual experience and conversations from the road.