India opens ultra-modern $3 billion airport terminal

India inaugurated a multi-billion-dollar airport terminal in New Delhi yesterday - a shiny glass-and-steel symbol of the country's aspirations as an emerging global power.

The state-of-the-art hub, which cost nearly three billion dollars and can handle 34 million passengers a year, was showcased at a special ceremony by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh ahead of its mid-July public opening.

The airport, which will handle international and domestic travellers, was built in a record 37 months, with similar projects abroad taking more than 60 months, officials said.

"This airport terminal establishes new global benchmarks," Singh said.

"It also highlights our country's resolve to bridge the infrastructure deficiencies in our country." The premier said the project was an "outstanding example" of public-private partnership - seen as the most viable financial model for India to execute big infrastructure projects as it eases the burden on government finances.

Built in time for New Delhi's hosting of the Commonwealth Games in October, the terminal sprawls over four square kilometres and boasts more than 90 automated walkways and 78 aerobridges.

"This is a demonstration of what India is truly capable," Civil Aviation Minister Praful Patel said at the inauguration ceremony at Indira Gandhi International Airport, which was also attended by ruling Congress party president Sonia Gandhi.