Assam Govt & AAI Sign MoU for Five Greenfield Airport Studies

The government of Assam's Transport Department has signed a landmark agreement with the Airports Authority of India (AAI) to evaluate the development of five new airports in the state. The move is a significant step forward for the Assam greenfield airports initiative, which aims to expand aviation infrastructure in the region. The AAI Assam MoU, or Memorandum of Understanding, formally initiates pre-feasibility studies at the selected sites.

This agreement targets a major expansion of regional connectivity Assam and is a key part of developing new airports in North East India. The primary goals are to improve access to remote and strategically important areas, stimulate local economies, and increase tourist traffic. The development is expected to reinforce Assam's position as a crucial gateway to both North East India and Southeast Asian nations.

Airport Development Details

The MoU was signed by Akashdeep, the Commissioner and Secretary of Transport for Assam, and Vipin Kumar, Chairman of the AAI. The agreement outlines the scope of the pre-feasibility studies for the five proposed greenfield airport locations: Manas National Park, Umrangshu, Majuli, Diphu, and Charaideo. A greenfield airport is a new facility built from scratch on undeveloped land, which allows for modern design and technology without the constraints of modifying existing infrastructure.

Speaking at the signing event, Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma highlighted the multifaceted benefits of the project. "A greenfield airport at Manas would not only address strategic and security considerations but would also significantly boost wildlife tourism in the region," he stated. "The proposed airports at Majuli, Umrangshu, Diphu and Charaideo would enhance regional connectivity and increase tourist footfall, thereby contributing to local economic development."

India's Greenfield Airport Policy has facilitated the construction of new airports nationwide to meet rising demand, with 21 projects having already received 'In-Principle' approval. The AAI, a statutory body under the Ministry of Civil Aviation, is responsible for creating, upgrading, and managing civil aviation infrastructure across India.

Strategic and Economic Implications

The selection of the airport sites reflects a dual focus on economic growth and strategic security. The proposed airport at Manas National Park is located near the Siliguri Corridor, a narrow stretch of land often called the 'Chicken's Neck' that connects India's northeastern states to the rest of the country. Enhancing air connectivity in this sensitive area is considered a strategic priority.

The economic impact is projected to be substantial. Improved air access is expected to provide a major fillip to tourism, industry, and commerce. An airport at Majuli, one of the world's largest river islands, would make the culturally significant destination more accessible to domestic and international tourists. Similarly, airports in the hilly regions of Umrangshu and Diphu would open up new areas for tourism and trade.

Broader Connectivity Goals

In addition to the five new airports, Chief Minister Sarma also advocated for further upgrades to Assam's existing aviation infrastructure. He requested that the AAI consider developing Rupsi Airport into a full-fledged facility, citing its strategic proximity to the Siliguri Corridor. Rupsi Airport, originally constructed during World War II, was revived and became operational again in May 2021 under the regional connectivity scheme RCS-UDAN.

Furthermore, the Chief Minister urged the AAI to take steps to enhance international flight connectivity from Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU) in Guwahati. As the primary airport for Northeast India, GAU currently serves international destinations including Paro, Bangkok, and Singapore. An increase in international services would further cement Assam's role as a regional hub. More information on the AAI's role and projects can be found on the Airports Authority of India (AAI) Official Website.

What Comes Next

The signing of the MoU marks the first official step in a long process. The AAI will now conduct detailed pre-feasibility studies for each of the five locations. These studies will assess factors such as land availability, environmental impact, air traffic potential, and financial viability. If the results are positive, the next phases would involve creating Detailed Project Reports (DPRs), securing necessary regulatory approvals, and arranging funding. The timeline for the completion of these studies and any subsequent construction has not been disclosed.

Why This Matters

This initiative represents a concerted effort to leverage aviation as a tool for comprehensive regional development. By focusing on previously underserved areas, the project aims to bridge infrastructure gaps and unlock economic potential. The plan balances the need for increased tourism and commerce with the strategic imperative of securing a critical geopolitical region, setting a potential model for integrated infrastructure development in other Indian states.

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