Assam has stepped up efforts to strengthen its aviation infrastructure, with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma urging the Centre to expedite approval for the proposed Silchar Greenfield Airport while reviewing progress on several other airport projects across the state. The discussions took place during a meeting with Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu in New Delhi, as the state seeks to position itself as a major aviation and logistics hub in Northeast India.
A key focus of the meeting was the proposed Silchar Greenfield Airport at Doloo Tea Estate in Cachar district. Sarma informed the Union Minister that most of the preparatory work for the project has already been completed and requested the Ministry of Civil Aviation to fast-track the approval process so that construction can commence at the earliest. The proposed airport is expected to significantly improve air connectivity in the Barak Valley and address capacity constraints at the existing Kumbhirgram Airport.
The meeting also reviewed the status of five other proposed greenfield airports at Manas, Umrangso, Majuli, Diphu, and Charaideo, along with a proposed heliport at Haflong. Both the Centre and the Assam government agreed to accelerate pre-feasibility studies for these projects to facilitate timely implementation and improve regional air connectivity.
In addition, discussions covered the ongoing expansion of Rupsi Airport, which has emerged as an important regional aviation hub in western Assam. The expansion is expected to enhance passenger capacity and improve connectivity to western Assam and neighbouring regions, complementing the state’s broader aviation development strategy.
According to the Chief Minister, the proposed aviation projects are aimed not only at improving passenger connectivity but also at boosting tourism, facilitating cargo movement, strengthening logistics, and creating new economic opportunities across Assam. The planned infrastructure is expected to improve access to remote areas while reinforcing the state’s role as a strategic gateway to Northeast India.
