Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new Integrated Terminal Building (Phase-1) of Chennai International Airport on Saturday.

The state-of-the-art terminal spread across an area of 1,36,295 sq metre, will increase the passenger serving capacity from 23 million passengers per annum (MPPA) to 30 MPPA - and will be an essential addition to the city's infrastructure.

Taking to Twitter, PM Modi said, "The new terminal in Chennai airport will greatly help the people of this great city and across Tamil Nadu. The terminal building also has a flavour of the rich culture of Tamil Nadu."

Besides boosting connectivity, it is also expected to benefit the local economy. Among the unique features of the terminal is Skylight. This feature allows natural light to be harvested for illuminating the space inside the building.

The new terminal is a striking reflection of the local Tamil culture, incorporating traditional features such as the Kolam (a pattern or design drawn in front of South Indian homes), saree, temples, and other elements that highlight the natural surroundings.

According to Prime Minister's Office (PMO), the Integrated Terminal Building of Chennai Airport has been developed at the cost of Rs 1,260 crores. The addition of this new Integrated Terminal building will increase the passenger serving capacity of the airport from 23 Million Passengers Per Annum (MPPA) to 30 MPPA.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin and Union Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia were among other dignitaries present at the inauguration ceremony.