Airport modernisation

— Development is impossible without a good communication network. For long the north eastern region was deprived of the gains of development due to poor and faulty communication links. The waterways which are the cheapest and most convenient form of communication link for the region did not get the attention which it so rightly deserved. The natural waterway in the shape of Brahmaputra river has a great potential which is waiting to be tapped. Road and rail links are not just enough to cater to the ever growing needs of the region. Gauge conversion and four lane highway work which are now being undertaken in the region, if completed, will to some extent help ease the communication bottleneck. Along with these forms of communication links, air connectivity has emerged as the most favoured mode of transport. But even in this sector the region is lagging far behind. A well thought out air connectivity plan can go a long way in ushering in the much needed development in the region. To reap the benefits of the much touted Look East Policy, a good air network is a must. Though there are airports in the region, they are not equipped with the latest gadgets and infrastructure. As a result they can handle a limited number of flights.

Though belatedly, a move has been initiated to modernise and develop the airports of the region. The Airports Authority of India has embarked on a drive to modernise the Lokapriya Gopinath Bardoloi International Airport, which is the hub of air traffic in the North East. The runway of the airport has been extended to 10,200 feet so that larger aircraft can use the airport. This in turn will help in increasing the volume of passengers and cargo. The expanded runway will also ensure safe landing and takeoff in wet condition which is frequent in the region. The modernisation work of the airport would also involve building of a link taxiway, construction of isolation bay and a new apron for parking of five AB 321 and six ATR 72 aircraft. Plans are also afoot to develop 240 acres of land for expanding the airport. The modernisation drive will definitely help in attracting commercial airliners both domestic and international to this airport. Along with the LGBI airport, the infrastructure of the other airports of the region too must be upgraded. Air connectivity holds the key in ushering in development for the region in certain key sectors and it should be availed at all costs. ASSAM TRIBUNE