India, May 31 -- Newly operational Halwara International Airport in Ludhiana, hailed as a major boost to the state's aviation infrastructure and industrial connectivity, has landed in controversy after the season's first major spell of rain allegedly exposed flaws in the construction of its terminal building.

The terminal building was virtually inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in February and the airport became operational on May 15 when the first flight from Delhi arrived.

The incident, which occurred on Saturday following heavy rain and strong winds, prompted the district administration to order an inquiry and sparked a political row, with opposition leaders questioning the quality of construction and demanding accountabili...