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IAF Makes History with Emergency Highway Landing in Assam, PM to Inaugurate Feb 14

The Indian Air Force has successfully conducted a trial landing at a new Emergency Landing Facility on the Moran highway in Assam's Dibrugarh district. This first-of-its-kind facility in Northeast India will allow fighter jets, transport aircraft, and helicopters to use a 4.2-kilometer stretch of highway as an alternative runway during emergencies or war. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the strategically vital project on February 14. The facility is designed to bolster national security and enhance Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief operations in remote areas.

Key Points: IAF Emergency Runway on Moran Highway: PM Modi to Inaugurate

  • First such facility in Northeast India
  • Strategic runway for Rafale, Sukhoi jets
  • Enhances disaster relief capabilities
  • 4.2-km highway doubles as airstrip
2 min read

History made on Moran Highway: IAF's emergency runway trial landing successful, PM to inaugurate on Feb 14

Indian Air Force successfully tests emergency landing on Assam highway. PM Modi to inaugurate the strategic facility on Feb 14 for national security.

"The occasion holds profound significance towards National Security - Official Release"

Dibrugarh, February 12

The state of Assam is going to witness a historic event, the inauguration of an Emergency Landing Facility on the Moran bypass in Dibrugarh district on February 14.

According to an official release, this ELF is the first of its kind in the North East region. The Prime Minister of India will be inaugurating and dedicating this facility to the nation. The facility opens an identified stretch on the highway as an alternative runway during contingencies, which would be capable of handling emergency landing and take off operations of fighters, transport aircraft and helicopters. This will also prove instrumental during Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations in far-flung areas.

The occasion holds profound significance towards National Security and would be witnessed by the Prime Minister, Defence Minister, Governor and Chief Minister of Assam, as well as senior civil and military dignitaries, a release stated.

Meanwhile, as part of the initiative, an Indian Air Force fighter jet successfully conducted a test landing at the Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) on the Moran highway on Thursday. The aircraft's roar reverberated throughout the area, sparking immense excitement. Prior to this successful trial, all technical and safety aspects were verified. Tight security arrangements were in place. A strict security cordon was established by the police and the Air Force for the entire event.

While the public was not allowed to approach, a large number of locals and visitors from various locations witnessed this historic moment from afar. The 4.2-kilometre-long highway will now be a runway as well. This 4.2-kilometre-long highway in Moran will no longer be just a road, but will also serve as a robust runway when needed.

In times of war or emergency, this ELF will be used for the landing and takeoff of Air Force aircraft. This runway is capable of landing the following aircraft: Rafale, Sukhoi, Hercules, cargo aircraft, and helicopters. This ELF project is considered crucial to the country's national security and defence strategy. This facility will serve as a strong base for the Indian Air Force in times of emergency or war.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
While the security aspect is important, I hope the frequent road closures for drills won't disrupt the daily commute for locals in Moran. The authorities must ensure a balance.
R
Rohit P
Saw the video of the test landing! The sound of that fighter jet was something else. Proud moment for Dibrugarh and for India's defence preparedness. 🇮🇳
S
Sarah B
The HADR (Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief) angle is crucial. Assam faces floods almost every year. This runway could be a lifeline for faster aid delivery. A very smart dual-use project.
V
Vikram M
First in the North East! This strengthens our position significantly. A clear message about our infrastructural and strategic reach. Kudos to all involved in the planning and execution.
K
Karthik V
Good step, but the cost and the constant maintenance of a highway that doubles as a runway must be transparent. Public money is involved. Hope it's used judiciously and not just for show.
M
Meera T
As someone from the region, it's heartening to see such advanced infrastructure coming up here. It's not just about defence; it brings a sense of security and development to the entire area.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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