Assam’s strategic landscape is set to undergo a significant transformation with the nearing completion of its first Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) on National Highway 2 in Moran. This pioneering infrastructure project, designed for dual civilian and military use, signals a robust enhancement of regional resilience and national security. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s recent inspection highlighted the facility’s readiness to serve critical functions, from defence operations to humanitarian aid during natural calamities, marking a pivotal moment for the state’s developmental trajectory.
The ELF, situated in Dibrugarh district’s Moran area, represents a forward-thinking approach to infrastructure development, where assets are designed for multifaceted utility. This capability allows high-performance combat aircraft, including Rafale, MiG, Tejas, Hercules, and AN-32, to utilise the highway stretch for take-offs and landings during emergencies. Such a provision is paramount in scenarios demanding rapid response, whether in times of national defence or during severe natural disasters that often disrupt conventional air and ground access, thereby ensuring swift logistical support and evacuation capabilities for affected populations.
This ambitious undertaking is a collaborative triumph between the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the Indian Air Force’s dedicated airfield construction division. Their integrated planning has resulted in a 4.2-kilometre segment, specially engineered to meet stringent aviation specifications, within the broader 11-kilometre four-lane highway connecting Moran Town to Tiloijan. The meticulous design ensures the structural integrity and operational safety required for heavy aircraft, alongside the everyday demands of public vehicular traffic, exemplifying efficient resource allocation in public works.
The strategic placement of the ELF in Upper Assam significantly bolsters the nation’s operational readiness in a geographically sensitive region. Beyond its military implications, the facility underscores a commitment to equitable access to emergency services, particularly vital in a state frequently susceptible to natural disasters. By integrating emergency air operations within existing road networks, the project maximises infrastructure utility, aligning with principles of sustainable urban and regional planning that seek to create adaptable and resilient communities capable of responding effectively to unforeseen challenges. Temporary fencing and a newly constructed Air Traffic Control tower further enhance operational safety and control.
Crucially, this advanced facility maintains its primary function as a public thoroughfare under normal conditions, ensuring seamless connectivity for commuters and commercial transport. The full 11-kilometre four-lane stretch has been operational for public traffic since April 1, already contributing to improved logistical efficiency and reduced travel times across the region. The anticipated formal inauguration by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the coming weeks will officially mark the full operationalisation of this dual-purpose asset, symbolising a new era of integrated infrastructure development in the Northeast.
The Moran ELF project stands as a testament to strategic foresight, demonstrating how national security imperatives can converge with sustainable infrastructure development. It not only fortifies India’s defence posture but also enhances the state’s capacity for disaster response, ensuring greater safety and security for its citizens. This model of dual-use infrastructure offers valuable lessons for future urban and regional planning, promoting efficiency and resilience in the face of evolving challenges.
Also Read: Ladakh Reserves 52 Leh Border Villages Near LAC and LoC for Development
