Newly built helipads in J'khand to aid Maoist op: Police

Two newly constructed helipads were tested for flight operations in Maoist-hit Palamu district of Jharkhand, bordering Aurangabad in Bihar, a senior police officer said.

A military helicopter (MI-17) successfully took off and landed on the two helipads at Dagra and Paathra areas of Palamu, Superintendent of Police Indrajeet Mahatha said.

"The helipads were developed to ensure that security personnel did not face any difficulty in reaching the remote areas of Palamu in emergency situations," Mahatha said.

Operation against the rebels could be intensified with the construction of the helipads, he said.

"The Maoists often sneak into the neighbouring state after committing a crime. The helipads will be helpful to chase and track down the naxalites with the co-ordination of security personnel and police of both the states," he added.