MoU signed for pre-feasibility study of five greenfield airports in Assam
Guwahati, February 28
The Assam government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Airports Authority of India to undertake a pre-feasibility study for the development of five greenfield airports in Assam.
The understanding was signed in the presence of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.
The proposed greenfield airports are planned at Manas National Park, Umrangshu, Majuli, Diphu and Charaideo.
Assam already has seven airports - Guwahati, Jorhat, Tezpur, Dibrugarh, Silchar, Lakhimpur, and Rupsi.
Chief Minister 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.
— ANI
Reader Comments
While better connectivity is welcome, I hope the environmental impact, especially for the airport near Manas National Park, is studied thoroughly. We must not compromise our precious wildlife for development.
Finally, focus on the Northeast! Upgrading Rupsi airport is crucial given its strategic location. This will boost the local economy and create jobs. A step in the right direction.
As someone who travels to Assam for work, improved air connectivity across the state would be a huge relief. The existing airports can get quite crowded. Hope the feasibility is positive!
Good initiative, but the government must ensure these projects don't end up as white elephants. We need sustainable passenger traffic. Focus on improving road and rail links simultaneously.
Connecting Majuli, the world's largest river island, by air is a dream! This will preserve and promote our rich culture and heritage. Can't wait to see it happen. Jai Aai Axom!
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