Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday, February 14, 2026, inaugurated the Northeast region’s first Emergency Landing Facility at Moran Bypass in Assam’s Dibrugarh district. The strategic project strengthens defence readiness, disaster response capabilities, and regional infrastructure.
Historic Landing Marks Inauguration
The Prime Minister arrived at the site around 10:51 AM aboard an Indian Air Force C 130J Super Hercules aircraft that took off from Chabua airbase. Following his arrival, he witnessed a 40 minute aerial display featuring fighter jets including Rafale, Sukhoi Su 30MKI, and Tejas performing touch and go operations on the highway section, demonstrating the facility’s operational readiness.
Strategic Asset for Defence and Emergency Response
The facility is built on a 4.2 kilometre reinforced stretch of National Highway 37 at Moran Bypass at a cost of approximately ₹100 crore. It serves as an alternative to Dibrugarh airport during defence operations, emergency logistics, and natural disaster response. The dual use asset supports both military and civilian needs.
Technical Specifications
The landing strip can accommodate fighter aircraft up to 40 tonnes and transport aircraft with maximum take off weight up to 74 tonnes. The project was executed by the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited.
Broader Development Push
Following the inauguration, the Prime Minister travelled to Guwahati to launch additional development projects worth over ₹5,450 crore. These include the Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu infrastructure project and facilities related to the temporary campus of IIM Guwahati, aimed at improving connectivity, education, and economic growth in the Northeast.
A Major Milestone for the Region
The Emergency Landing Facility at Moran Bypass represents a significant achievement for Assam and the Northeast. It enhances national security, improves disaster preparedness, and supports regional infrastructure development alongside ongoing efforts to boost connectivity and opportunities in this strategically important part of India.