Dibrugarh, February 14: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated the Northeast’s first Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) at Moran in Assam’s Dibrugarh district, marking a significant milestone in the region’s strategic and aviation infrastructure. The state-of-the-art airstrip, developed along a stretch of National Highway-37 at the Moran Bypass, is designed to serve both civilian and military purposes, strengthening India's emergency response and defence capabilities in the Northeast.
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| Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, and Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh attend the inauguration and aerial demonstration at the Emergency Landing Facility in Moran, Dibrugarh. (Image: x.com/himantabiswa) |
The Prime Minister arrived aboard an Indian Air Force C-130J Super Hercules aircraft, which took off from Chabua Air Force Station before successfully landing on the newly constructed emergency airstrip. The historic landing demonstrated the operational readiness of the dual-use facility. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, senior defence officials, and dignitaries were present during the dedication ceremony.
Constructed at an estimated cost of ₹100 crore, the Emergency Landing Facility has been built to accommodate a wide range of military aircraft. It is capable of handling fighter jets weighing up to 40 tonnes as well as heavy transport aircraft with a maximum take-off weight of 74 tonnes. The project is expected to significantly enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian Air Force while improving preparedness for natural disasters and other emergency situations in the strategically important Northeast region.
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Following the inauguration, Prime Minister Modi witnessed an impressive aerial demonstration by the Indian Air Force. The display featured take-offs and operations by Sukhoi Su-30MKI and Rafale fighter aircraft, showcasing India's advanced air combat capabilities and rapid deployment readiness.
Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma extended a traditional Assamese welcome to the Prime Minister by presenting him with a gamusa, a japi, and a portrait of Queen Sati Sadhani, honouring the state’s rich cultural heritage.
Thousands of people gathered at Moran to witness the landmark event, reflecting the significance of the project for the region. Officials said the Emergency Landing Facility would not only strengthen national security but also serve as a vital asset during disaster relief operations, making Assam a key hub for strategic infrastructure and emergency response in Northeast India.
