Guwahati: The Government of Assam, through its Transport Department, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Airports Authority of India (AAI) on Tuesday to conduct a pre-feasibility study for the development of five greenfield airports in the state.
The MoU was signed at Lok Sewa Bhawan in the presence of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.
The MoU was inked by Transport Commissioner and Secretary Akashdeep and AAI Chairman Vipin Kumar. The proposed greenfield airports are planned at Manas National Park, Umrangshu, Majuli, Diphu, and Charaideo.
Speaking on the occasion, Sarma thanked the AAI for undertaking the pre-feasibility studies and outlined the potential benefits of the new airports. He said a greenfield airport at Manas would address strategic and security considerations while significantly boosting wildlife tourism in the region.
The proposed airports at Majuli, Umrangshu, Diphu, and Charaideo would enhance regional connectivity, increase tourist footfall, and contribute to local economic development.
Sarma added that the development of these airports could set a model for other states. He also urged AAI to consider upgrading Rupsi Airport into a full-fledged airport, given its strategic proximity to the Siliguri Corridor, also known as Chicken’s Neck, and to enhance international flight connectivity from Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport.
The Chief Minister said the new greenfield airports and eventual flight operations are expected to boost regional connectivity, tourism, industry, and commerce, while strengthening strategic communication infrastructure across Assam. He noted that the initiative would reinforce Assam’s role as a key gateway to North East India and South East Asian nations.
The event was attended by MLA Dharmeswar Konwar, Chief Executive Members of Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council Tuliram Ronghang and NC Hills Autonomous Council Debolal Gorlosa, Chief Secretary Ravi Kota, Secretary of Civil Aviation, Government of India Samir Kumar Sinha, and other senior officials and dignitaries.