Are Four New Airports on the Horizon for Assam?
Synopsis
Assam's Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, has unveiled plans to develop four new airports in the state while defending the critical Emergency Landing Facility in Moran. This move aims to enhance regional connectivity and bolster national security, marking a significant stride in Assam's aviation infrastructure.
Key Takeaways
Four new airports planned in Assam.
Locations include Majuli, Diphu, Umrangso, and Manas.
New terminal operations at Guwahati begin February 22.
Emergency Landing Facility at Moran crucial for national security.
Infrastructure development seen as a priority for Assam's growth.
Guwahati, Feb 15 (NationPress) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced significant developments in aviation infrastructure on Sunday, emphasizing the importance of the Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) at Moran as a crucial asset for national security that should not be overlooked.
In a statement to the media, Sarma revealed the government's intention to establish four new airports in Assam, aimed at enhancing regional connectivity.
The locations for the proposed airports include Majuli, Diphu, Umrangso, and Manas, representing a substantial effort to improve air travel access in remote and strategically significant areas.
Additionally, the Chief Minister announced that aircraft operations at the new airport terminal in Guwahati would start on February 22, marking another milestone in Assam's growing aviation sector.
This new terminal is expected to boost passenger capacity, enhance the travel experience, and establish Guwahati as a prominent aviation hub within the Northeast.
In response to criticism regarding the Emergency Landing Facility in Dibrugarh district, Sarma stated that the ELF is not comparable to civilian structures like tea gardens.
"This facility is directly related to national security. In emergencies or wartime, the Moran ELF will be pivotal," he asserted.
He mentioned that defense specialists across India have commended the Moran ELF, recognizing it as a strategically essential installation.
Furthermore, Sarma highlighted that the facility would remain operational during floods, underlining its resilience and significance in emergency situations and disasters.
The Chief Minister accused India's adversaries of attempting to undermine such strategic assets through misleading comparisons, noting that similar objections were previously raised regarding projects like the Kaziranga corridor.
He also revealed that both the central and state governments are planning to construct additional Emergency Landing Facilities in the future to enhance preparedness and defense logistics.
In a pointed remark directed at Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi, Sarma cautioned that opposition leaders tend to resist every major developmental initiative in Assam.
"Those who oppose strategic infrastructure are not acting in the nation’s best interest," Sarma concluded.
These announcements highlight the Assam government’s commitment to infrastructure development, security readiness, and improved connectivity throughout the state and the Northeast.
Point of View
The development of new airports in Assam reflects a strategic focus on enhancing connectivity and security in the region. The emphasis on the Emergency Landing Facility underscores the government's commitment to national security, amidst concerns from opposition leaders. This infrastructure push is essential for fostering growth and resilience in Northeast India.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the locations of the new airports in Assam?
The new airports will be located in Majuli, Diphu, Umrangso, and Manas.
When will operations start at Guwahati's new airport terminal?
Operations at the new airport terminal in Guwahati will commence on February 22.
Why is the Emergency Landing Facility at Moran important?
The Emergency Landing Facility at Moran is considered a critical asset for national security, particularly during emergencies or wartime.
What has the Chief Minister said about opposition to infrastructure projects?
The Chief Minister has criticized opposition leaders for opposing major development initiatives, claiming it is not in the nation's best interest.
How does this development impact Assam's connectivity?
The development of new airports is aimed at significantly enhancing regional connectivity and improving air access in strategically important areas of Assam.
