Assam Pushes Major Aviation Expansion, CM Defends Moran Emergency Landing Facility as Key Security Asset

Guwahati, Feb 2026 :Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday unveiled an ambitious roadmap to expand aviation infrastructure across the state, while firmly defending the Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) at Moran, calling it a vital national security installation that should not be trivialised or misrepresented.

Speaking to reporters, Sarma announced that the Assam government has drawn up plans to develop four new airports aimed at boosting regional connectivity and accelerating economic growth. The proposed airports will be located in Majuli, Diphu, Umrangso, and Manas. These locations include remote, hilly, and strategically important areas that have long suffered from limited air connectivity.

The Chief Minister said the new airports would significantly reduce travel time, promote tourism, improve access to healthcare and education, and open fresh avenues for investment in these regions. “Strengthening air connectivity is essential for Assam’s overall development and for integrating remote areas with the mainstream economy,” he said.

Sarma also announced that aircraft landing operations at Guwahati’s new airport terminal will begin from February 22. He described the upcoming launch as a major milestone in Assam’s aviation journey, noting that the modern terminal will substantially enhance passenger handling capacity and offer an improved travel experience. According to him, the new terminal will help position Guwahati as a major aviation hub for the Northeast.

Addressing criticism surrounding the Emergency Landing Facility at Moran in Dibrugarh district, the Chief Minister struck a firm tone. He said the Moran ELF cannot be compared to civilian infrastructure such as tea gardens, as it is directly linked to national security. “In times of war or emergency, this facility will play a decisive role. It is a strategic asset for the country,” Sarma said.

He added that defence experts across India have praised the Moran ELF for its strategic importance and resilience. The facility, he noted, is designed to remain operational even during floods, making it crucial for disaster response and emergency preparedness.

Sarma alleged that India’s adversaries often attempt to undermine critical infrastructure by creating misleading narratives and drawing false comparisons. He pointed out that similar objections were raised in the past against projects like the Kaziranga corridor, which later proved to be essential for both conservation and development.

The Chief Minister also revealed that the Centre and the Assam government are planning to build more Emergency Landing Facilities in the future to strengthen defence logistics and preparedness. Taking a swipe at Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi, Sarma accused opposition leaders of opposing every major development initiative in the state. “Those who object to strategic infrastructure are not acting in the national interest,” he said.

The announcements reflect the Assam government’s strong emphasis on infrastructure-led growth, improved connectivity, and enhanced security preparedness across the state and the wider Northeast.