Will Fighter Jets Soon Land on Highways in Assam?
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Synopsis
Assam is gearing up for unprecedented advancements in road infrastructure as CM Himanta Biswa Sarma announces plans for emergency landings of fighter jets on highways. This initiative not only enhances security but also provides vital support for civilian aircraft, marking a historic first for the northeastern region.
Key Takeaways
- Emergency landing facilities are being developed in Assam for fighter jets and civilian aircraft.
- A 4.2 km stretch of national highway near Dibrugarh will be prepared for this purpose.
- The project aims for completion by October 2023.
- Similar facilities will be established in two other locations in Assam.
- This initiative signifies a major enhancement in Assam's infrastructure.
Guwahati, June 29 (NationPress) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Sunday that the state government is set to establish facilities for the emergency landing of Indian Air Force fighter jets and civilian aircraft on a designated stretch of national highway near Dibrugarh by October this year. This initiative marks a pioneering move for the entire northeastern region.
Sarma informed the media: "The Union government has approved the preparation of a section of the national highway from Moran to Numaligarh that passes through Dibrugarh for use as an emergency landing site for Air Force fighter jets, including Sukhoi 30 and Rafale. A 4.2 km stretch of this highway is being readied for these landings."
Furthermore, the Chief Minister set a clear deadline for the completion of this project.
“Our target is to have the 4.2 km stretch of the national highway ready for fighter jet landings by October this year. I have been in constant communication with Air Force officials to ensure this deadline is met. The project will proceed under their supervision. Once the highway is prepared for the jets, we plan to host an air show for the public,” he elaborated.
CM Sarma also emphasized that in case of emergencies, civilian aircraft would have the option to land on the national highway as well.
He stated, “Should any civilian aircraft face difficulties landing at Dibrugarh airport, there will be provisions for emergency landings on the national highway.”
The Chief Minister also revealed that the Union government has approved similar emergency landing facilities in two additional locations in Assam.
Sarma remarked: “The Central government has authorized the preparation of national highways in two other regions of the state for emergency aircraft landings. One location will be in lower Assam and the other between Nagaon and Lumding. Work on these two sites will commence shortly.”
The Chief Minister confidently asserted that the people of Assam are on the brink of witnessing significant advancements in road infrastructure.
Point of View
This initiative by the Assam government is a significant leap towards enhancing aviation safety and emergency preparedness in the region. By allowing fighter jets and civilian aircraft to utilize national highways for landings, the government is addressing crucial logistical challenges while promoting infrastructural development. This bold step showcases Assam's commitment to progress and safety in aviation.
NationPress
29/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the highway landing facility?
The facility will serve as an emergency landing site for Indian Air Force fighter jets and civilian aircraft, enhancing aviation safety in the region.
Where will the emergency landing facility be located?
The facility will be established on a stretch of national highway near Dibrugarh, Assam.
When is the completion deadline for the project?
The project is set to be completed by October this year.
Will civilian aircraft be able to land on the highway?
Yes, in case of emergencies, provisions will be made for civilian aircraft to land on the national highway.
Are there other locations planned for similar facilities?
Yes, the Union government has approved two additional locations in Assam for emergency aircraft landings.
