Northeast to Launch Its First Highway-Based Emergency Landing Strip

The Northeast is preparing to launch its first highway-based emergency landing strip in Dibrugarh, with an inauguration planned for February. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that this facility will enhance aviation safety and military readiness in the region. The advanced landing strip, capable of accommodating both civilian and military aircraft, aims to provide an alternative landing option when the Dibrugarh airport is unavailable. Additionally, plans for helipads along major highways are underway to improve emergency response capabilities. This initiative marks a significant step in bolstering the region's infrastructure and strategic flexibility.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 8, 2026, 19:11 IST

Introduction of Emergency Landing Strip in Dibrugarh

Jorhat, Jan 8: The Northeast region is poised to unveil its inaugural highway-based emergency landing strip. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Thursday that this facility, located on the Dibrugarh–Moran segment of the National Highway, is set to be inaugurated in February.

During a press interaction at a welfare scheme event in Khowang, Dibrugarh, Sarma indicated that the project might receive a prominent launch from the Centre.

He mentioned, “There is a possibility of the Prime Minister visiting for the inauguration of the advanced landing facility. If that doesn’t happen, we will aim to have the Defence Minister present.”

The advanced landing facility, which is being constructed over a 4.2-km stretch in Moran, is intended to accommodate both civilian aircraft and Indian Air Force fighter jets, including Sukhoi and Rafale models.

Sarma previously stated that this highway strip would serve as an alternative landing option if Dibrugarh airport is unavailable for any reason.

The National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd (NHIDCL) is overseeing the execution of this project, marking it as the first of its kind in the Northeast.

Additionally, Sarma highlighted that the Centre has sanctioned two more highway-based emergency landing strips in Assam—one on the Boroma–Tihu stretch in lower Assam and another between Nagaon and Lumding at Sankardevnagar.

Once operational, this landing strip is anticipated to greatly improve strategic flexibility for the Armed Forces in the sensitive Northeast region, while also bolstering civil aviation readiness during emergencies.

The Chief Minister also mentioned plans for helipads to be established at regular intervals along major highways, especially in flood-prone highland areas.

He aims to create helipads every 50 to 100 km, transforming the Numaligarh–Dibrugarh–Tinsukia corridor into a modern, resilient transport and emergency-response route.