DIBRUGARH: On Sunday, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma declared that the first emergency aircraft landing facility in the Northeast, located at Moran Bypass, is approaching completion and is expected to be operational by September. This 4.2-km segment, which is part of the Dibrugarh–Moran National Highway, is being constructed in collaboration with the Indian Air Force (IAF) to facilitate emergency landings for both civilian and military aircraft, including advanced fighter jets such as Rafale and Sukhoi. “In the event of an emergency where Dibrugarh Airport is unavailable, this strip will act as a crucial alternative,” CM Sarma stated during his visit to the site. He further mentioned that the facility will also be advantageous for residents living in proximity to the bypass. Emphasizing community involvement, CM Sarma announced that a fighter jet air show is being organized in partnership with the IAF on the inauguration day to demonstrate the capabilities of the landing strip.
Additionally, CM Sarma confirmed that two more emergency landing facilities will be established in lower and central Assam — one situated between Tihu and Barama and another between Nagaon and Lumding. “This is a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing both national security and disaster preparedness in the region,” CM Sarma remarked. In a related development, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma visited the historic Rang Ghar in Sivasagar to evaluate the ongoing waterlogging issue. He was accompanied by MLA Akhil Gogoi, Education Minister Ranoj Pegu, and Sivasagar Deputy Commissioner Ayush Garg.
