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Assam Plans 5 New Greenfield Airports to Boost Tourism & Connectivity

The Assam government has signed an MoU with the Airports Authority of India for a pre-feasibility study to develop five greenfield airports. The proposed locations are Manas National Park, Umrangshu, Majuli, Diphu, and Charaideo. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated these airports would boost tourism, regional connectivity, and local economies. The initiative aims to position Assam as a gateway to Northeast and Southeast Asia.

Key Points: Assam Signs MoU with AAI for 5 Greenfield Airports Study

  • Pre-feasibility study for five new airports
  • Boost to wildlife & regional tourism
  • Enhanced NE connectivity & economic development
  • Strategic & security benefits
2 min read

Assam govt signs MoU with AAI for pre-feasibility study of five Greenfield airports

Assam govt & AAI sign MoU for pre-feasibility study of 5 new airports at Manas, Majuli, Umrangshu, Diphu & Charaideo to boost tourism & connectivity.

"greenfield airport at Manas would... significantly boost wildlife tourism - Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma"

Guwahati, February 28

Assam government, through its Transport Department has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding with the Airports Authority of India to undertake a pre-feasibility study for the development of five greenfield airports in Assam, in the august presence of Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma in Lok Sewa Bhawan in Guwahati.

The MoU was signed on Friday by the Commissioner and Secretary, Transport, Akashdeep, and Chairman, AAI, Vipin Kumar. The proposed greenfield airports are planned at Manas National Park, Umrangshu, Majuli, Diphu and Charaideo.

Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Dr Sarma thanked the Airports Authority of India for undertaking the initiative to carry out the pre-feasibility studies at the five identified locations. He stated that a greenfield airport at Manas would not only address strategic and security considerations but would also significantly boost wildlife tourism in the region.

He further said that the proposed airports at Majuli, Umrangshu, Diphu and Charaideo would enhance regional connectivity and increase tourist footfall, thereby contributing to local economic development.

The Chief Minister also observed that the development of these greenfield airports would enable Assam to set a model that could be replicated by other states.

He requested AAI to consider upgrading Rupsi Airport into a full-fledged airport, keeping in view its strategic proximity to the Siliguri Corridor, Chicken's Neck.

Additionally, he urged AAI to take steps to enhance international flight connectivity from Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport.

He also said that the greenfield airports and consequently launching flight operations from these airports is expected to provide a major fillip to regional connectivity, while boosting tourism, industry and commerce, and strengthening strategic communication infrastructure across the state.

He further said that the move would reinforce Assam's role as a key gateway to North East and South East Asian nations.

MLA Dharmeswar Konwar, CEM Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council, Tuliram Ronghang, CEM NC Hills Autonomous Council, Debolal Gorlosa, Chief Secretary, Ravi Kota, Secretary, Civil Aviation, Government of India, Samir Kumar Sinha, along with other senior officials and dignitaries, were present on the occasion.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
While better connectivity is welcome, I'm concerned about the environmental impact, especially near Manas National Park. We must ensure these projects are truly sustainable and don't harm our precious wildlife. Development and ecology must go hand in hand.
R
Rohit P
Great step! Upgrading Rupsi Airport is crucial given its strategic location. Better connectivity in the Northeast is long overdue and vital for both security and economic growth. Kudos to the CM and AAI.
S
Sarah B
As someone who loves traveling to the Northeast, this is exciting! Easier access to places like Majuli, the world's largest river island, will be wonderful. Hope it brings more tourists and helps preserve the local culture too.
V
Vikram M
The focus should be on completing existing infrastructure projects first. We hear about many MoUs, but the ground reality is often different. Let's see tangible results and proper utilization of funds. Hope this isn't just another announcement.
K
Kavya N
Connecting historical places like Charaideo (the sacred burial grounds of the Ahom kings) will really help promote our rich heritage. This is a positive move for Assam's identity and economy. Jai Axom! 🇮🇳

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