Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 18 virtually flagged off the Puri-Howrah Vande Bharat train. At the inaugural event, Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik hinted at PM Modi’s return to power in 2024. CM Patnaik said, “he is hopeful, the PM will visit Shreekhetra to dedicate Sri Jagannath International Airport”. "Recently, I met the PM and had a detailed discussion on Sri Jagannath International Airport at Puri. We will incorporate all the suggestions given by the PM. I am hopeful that with your cooperation and support, within three to four years, this airport will be ready, and the honourable PM will come to Shreekhetra to dedicate the Puri International Airport," said Naveen Patnaik at the inaugural event of Puri-Howrah Vande Bharat train.