India Builds Emergency Airstrip in Arunachal; IAF Jets to Use It Soon

India Builds Northeast’s First Emergency Airstrip in Assam; Sukhoi, Rafale Jets to Land Soon

Guwahati: In a significant move to enhance national security and disaster response, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that North East India’s first emergency landing airstrip on a national highway will be ready by October. Located between Moran and Demow in eastern Assam, the 4-km strip is being developed under the Dibrugarh-Moran NH project in collaboration with the Indian Air Force (IAF).

Sarma stated that the facility, once completed, will accommodate both civilian aircraft and advanced fighter jets like Sukhoi and Rafale. He also mentioned discussions with the IAF for an air show to mark its inauguration.

Two additional emergency airstrips are planned—one between Tihu and Barama in western Assam, and another between Nagaon and Lumding in central Assam.

The Chief Minister's Office highlighted the project’s strategic importance via a post on X, stating it will significantly boost disaster preparedness and national defense infrastructure.

Sarma also revealed plans for building helipads along elevated sections of national highways in flood-prone regions to ensure continued rescue and relief efforts during severe flooding.

“This infrastructure initiative, spanning from Numaligarh to Dibrugarh and Tinsukia, will not only enhance emergency response but also uplift the region’s overall connectivity,” Sarma said.