PM Modi makes historic touchdown on Assam’s first emergency landing highway

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s aircraft landed Saturday at the Northeast’s first Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) in Assam’s Moran, a milestone in the state’s infrastructure and strategic development. The facility, built at a cost of Rs 100 crore, is designed to allow Indian Air Force fighter jets to take off and land during emergencies.

Emergency Landing Facility Inaugurated in Assam

The Prime Minister inaugurated the 4.2-km stretch of national highway by making the first landing, arriving from the Chabua airfield aboard an Indian Air Force C-130J aircraft. He later departed for Guwahati from the ELF, also using a C-130J aircraft, as part of a day-long visit to Assam.

The ELF is capable of handling fighter aircraft up to 40 tonnes and transport aircraft up to 74 tonnes maximum take-off weight. It will serve as an alternative to the Dibrugarh airport during emergencies and strengthen defence, logistics, and disaster response in the region.

Indian Air Force Aerial Display

PM Modi witnessed a 40-minute aerial display by the Indian Air Force, featuring fighter jets, transport aircraft, and helicopters. The demonstration showcased the operational readiness of the Air Force and the dual-use capability of the highway.

Fighter aircraft including the Sukhoi Su-30MKI and Rafale jets operated from the Emergency Landing Facility during the display. The An-32 transport aircraft was also showcased, along with Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) performing heli-borne operations and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) demonstrations.

The Air Force’s elite special forces unit, Garud Commandos, also participated in the aerial display.

Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, and other senior state government officials received the Prime Minister at the Chabua airfield. He is also scheduled to launch development projects worth over Rs 5,500 crore and attend public rallies during his visit.