India Moves to Revive Abandoned Airstrips in Eastern States
The Indian government has launched an initiative to bring several abandoned airstrips back into operation. These airstrips, some of which date back to the World War-II era, are located in the states of West Bengal, Assam, and Tripura. Official sources confirm that the Centre aims to enhance regional connectivity in these areas, which share borders with Bangladesh.
Strategic Importance Amid Strained Relations
This development comes at a time when India's relationship with Bangladesh has reached a low point. Over the past year, extremist elements in Bangladesh have repeatedly threatened to sever India's Northeast from the mainland. The Siliguri corridor, often called the "Chicken's Neck," is a vital link connecting the Northeast to the rest of India. Bangladesh recently began redeveloping the Lalmonirhat airbase in Rangpur, close to this strategic corridor.
Although Bangladesh officially states that the Rangpur base serves its national needs and is not for military use by other nations, Indian authorities are taking no chances. India has already strengthened its military presence in the region by establishing three new Army bases: Chopra in West Bengal, Kishanganj in Bihar, and Lachit Borphukan in Dhubri, Assam.
Specific Airstrips Identified for Renovation
The airstrips slated for renovation include:
- Ambari and Panga in Jalpaiguri district, West Bengal
- Balurghat in South Dinajpur district, West Bengal
- Jhaljhalia in Malda district, West Bengal
- Dhubri in Assam
Notably, Cooch Behar in West Bengal and Rupsi in Assam's Kokrajhar district are already operational. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has transferred the airfields in West Bengal to the state government for this purpose.
Operational Challenges and Repair Efforts
Defence sources highlight several operational challenges with these old airstrips. Many are overgrown with vegetation, broken, damaged, or situated within settlements, making them unsuitable for major operations. However, efforts are underway to conduct minor repairs. The goal is to make these strips usable for helicopters and small aircraft during emergencies.
An official emphasized that India wants to keep these runways operation-ready. This move underscores a broader strategy to bolster infrastructure and security along the eastern border, ensuring preparedness in a volatile regional context.
