Assam Wants More Places for Planes to Land in Emergencies

Assam wants to build more special places on its roads where planes can land if there is an emergency. This will help keep people safe and help in times of trouble.
By Newsroom | Assam, Infrastructure |

The state of Assam is pursuing the development of additional emergency landing facilities (ELF) on its highway network, a move aimed at enhancing strategic capabilities and disaster response in the region. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has indicated that the state government has formally requested the central government to consider establishing more such facilities. This push for expanded infrastructure comes alongside the recent inauguration of the Northeast's first ELF and plans for other significant infrastructure projects.

  • The urgency behind these requests appears to stem from a desire to bolster both civilian and military aviation capabilities within Assam. The establishment of these landing strips on national highways signifies a proactive approach to developing dual-purpose infrastructure.

  • The Chief Minister has also outlined broader development plans, including proposals for a twin-tube road-cum-rail tunnel under the Brahmaputra River and an underground highway. These initiatives collectively suggest a strategy to significantly upgrade Assam's logistical and strategic positioning.

Strategic Infrastructure Development in the Northeast

Assam has recently seen the operationalization of its first Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) on a highway stretch near Moran in Dibrugarh district. This facility, designed to accommodate both civilian and military aircraft during emergencies, was recently utilized by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The landing of a C-130J Super Hercules aircraft marked a significant milestone, highlighting the facility's operational readiness.

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  • The project is part of a broader national initiative to develop ELFs across the country, with India currently having seven such stretches operational or under construction.

  • Prime Minister Modi's visit also coincided with the inauguration of other major infrastructure projects worth over Rs 5,450 crore in Assam. These included the new campus of the Indian Institute of Management Guwahati and a 6-lane bridge connecting Guwahati with North Guwahati.

Assam's Pursuit of Additional Landing Facilities

The Assam government has communicated its interest in developing more emergency landing capabilities to the central government. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated that a pact with the Ministry of Civil Aviation is planned for the upcoming month to conduct a feasibility study for constructing four new airports.

  • The proposed new airports are slated for locations in Majuli, Diphu, Umrangso, and Manas.

  • The Chief Minister also indicated that four to five more emergency landing facilities are potentially slated for construction in the state. This suggests a significant expansion of the current infrastructure.

Government Proposals and Existing Facilities

The central government has already shown an inclination towards expanding emergency landing capabilities in Assam. Proposals are reportedly in place for the establishment of ELFs on two national highway stretches in the Nagaon and Baksa districts.

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Assam govt has written to Centre for more emergency landing facilities: CM Himanta - 1

  • Currently, Assam has at least one operational ELF in Dibrugarh district, constructed on a 3.5-kilometer section of a four-lane highway.

  • Other sources suggest the approval of two additional ELFs in Lower and Central Assam, specifically between Barma-Tihu and Nagon-Lumding.

  • A separate ELF is also reportedly under construction on an 11-km four-lane highway segment between Polo Club in Khatkhati and Tiloijan. This facility is expected to accommodate fighter jets like Rafale and Tejas, alongside civilian aircraft.

Strategic Importance and Dual-Use Infrastructure

The development of ELFs on highways is a strategic move designed to enhance national security and facilitate rapid response during crises. These facilities serve a dual purpose:

  • Military Readiness: They provide airfields for military aircraft, particularly fighter jets, in areas where permanent airbases might be distant or vulnerable. The ability for aircraft to land and take off from highways expedites deployment and operational flexibility.

  • Civilian Support: In times of natural disasters or other emergencies, these stretches can be used by civilian aircraft for rescue and relief operations, significantly improving accessibility and aid delivery.

  • Connectivity Enhancement: The development of such robust infrastructure also contributes to improved transportation and economic connectivity within the region.

Expert Perspectives on Northeast Connectivity

The strategic importance of infrastructure development in the Northeast has been a recurring theme. Analysts suggest that robust connectivity is crucial for the region's economic growth and national security.

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"The Northeast region, with its strategic location bordering several countries, requires continuous attention to its infrastructure development. Emergency landing facilities on highways are a pragmatic solution to augment air connectivity, especially for defense and disaster management," observed a defense analyst who preferred to remain anonymous due to the sensitivity of the matter.

A spokesperson for the Ministry of Civil Aviation, when approached for comment on the specific requests from Assam, stated, "The Ministry is continuously evaluating proposals for enhancing aviation infrastructure across the country based on strategic necessity and feasibility studies."

Conclusion and Future Trajectory

The ongoing efforts to expand emergency landing facilities in Assam underscore a clear strategic imperative. The state's proactive stance, coupled with central government initiatives, indicates a focused approach to fortifying the region's air infrastructure.

  • The expansion of ELFs will provide critical support for both national defense and disaster management operations.

  • The planned feasibility study for new airports suggests a long-term vision for enhancing air travel and economic activity in Assam.

  • The dual-use nature of these highway-based landing strips offers an efficient and cost-effective method to bolster aerial capabilities.

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The success of these proposals hinges on the collaboration between state and central authorities and the thorough completion of feasibility studies to ensure optimal strategic placement and operational effectiveness.

Sources:

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why does Assam want more emergency landing spots?
These spots help planes land safely if there is a problem, like during bad weather or if a plane has an issue. They can also be used to help people during natural disasters.
Q: Who is building these spots?
The state government of Assam is asking the national government to help build more of these places. Some are already being built or are ready to use.
Q: Can only military planes use these spots?
No, these spots are for both military and regular planes. They are useful for defense and also for helping people during emergencies.