Guwahati : Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to inaugurate the Northeast’s first highway-based emergency landing strip on the Dibrugarh-Moran stretch of National Highway 127, with preparations in full swing ahead of his proposed visit on February 14.

According to officials, there is strong anticipation that the Prime Minister’s aircraft may land directly on the 30-metre-wide runway developed along the highway, marking a historic moment for the region. While vehicular traffic is currently allowed on the stretch, the designated runway has been kept clear and operationally ready for aircraft operations.

As part of preparedness measures, central dividers along the stretch have been removed, fencing has been installed on both sides to prevent the entry of people and animals, and temporary roadside shops have been cleared to ensure safety during flight operations. Officials said these steps have significantly increased the likelihood of an aircraft landing on the highway during the Prime Minister’s visit.

Reacting to the development, senior BJP leader from Dibrugarh, Parag Dutta, said the proposed landing would fulfil a long-cherished aspiration of the region. “Through a live video by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, we came to know that on February 14, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will land his aircraft on this highway. This is a dream we have had for years, and the people are eagerly waiting. Such an initiative will create history,” Dutta said.

Chah Janagosthi Morcha district general secretary, Dibrugarh, Shyamal Bhumij, also welcomed the Prime Minister’s proposed visit. “What was once only a dream-an emergency aircraft landing on a national highway-will become a reality on February 14,” he said, extending greetings on behalf of the organisation.

Earlier, on January 8, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had indicated the possibility of the Prime Minister inaugurating the facility, adding that efforts would otherwise be made to invite the Defence Minister. During a visit to the district in June 2025, Sarma had said the highway strip would serve as an alternative landing facility if aircraft were unable to land at Dibrugarh airport.

The state-of-the-art highway-based emergency landing strip has been constructed over a 4.5-kilometre stretch under the supervision of the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL). Once operational, the facility is expected to significantly enhance strategic flexibility for the Armed Forces in the sensitive Northeast frontier and strengthen civil aviation preparedness during emergencies.

In the event of war or natural disasters, the highway can be rapidly converted into a fully functional air base capable of handling Indian Air Force aircraft such as Sukhoi, Rafale, MiG, Tejas, Hercules and AN-32.

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