Arunchal governor seeks more greenfield airports, helipads

Arunachal Pradesh Governor J.P. Rajkhowa has again urged the Centre for the construction of three to four more greenfield airports and more helipads in the state due to its difficult terrain.

Rajkhowa made the request during a meeting with Civil Aviation Minister P. Ashok Gajapathi Raju, who asked the state to acquire over 525 acres for the proposed greenfield airport in Hollongi area of Arunachal, Raj Bhavan spokesperson Atum Potom said on Thursday.

"They discussed aviation-related issues, including the greenfield airport and finances for renovation of 20 helipads in the state," he said.

The governor also stressed on the dual utilisation of advance landing grounds at Vijaynagar, Walong, Ziro, Aalo, Mechuka, Tuting and Pasighat as civil terminals.

An Airport Authority of India's board member, present at the meeting in Delhi, said the Arunachal Pradesh government has to acquire and hand over 525 acres free of cost and free of all encumbrance to facilitate preparation of a detail project report.

Approvals from the civil aviation ministry, Public Investment Board, Niti Aayog and Cabinet Committee for Economic Affairs have also to be sought.