Union Minister for Civil Aviation and Steel, Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, inaugurated the newly upgraded infrastructure at Tezu Airport in Arunachal Pradesh. The development, undertaken by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) at a cost of Rs. 170 crore, includes runway extensions, a new apron for two ATR 72 aircraft, construction of a modern terminal building, and a fire station cum ATC Tower. The enhancements enable the airport to accommodate ATR 72 type aircraft.
Minister Scindia highlighted the significant development of the North East region under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. He mentioned that North East India, termed ‘HIRA’ (Highway, Internet, Railway, and Aviation), has witnessed substantial growth in infrastructure, particularly in the aviation sector. The Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) – UDAN has played a pivotal role in democratising civil aviation, facilitating over 2.50 lakh UDAN flights, benefiting over 1.37 crore passengers.
Scindia emphasised the transformative impact on Arunachal Pradesh, where four airports have been developed and operationalised in the past nine years, enhancing connectivity and contributing to economic development. Additionally, he announced three direct routes from Itanagar under the UDAN 5.0 scheme: Itanagar to Delhi, Itanagar to Jorahat, and Itanagar to Rupsi.
Tezu Airport, operationalised in 2018 under RCS UDAN, connects Dibrugarh, Imphal, and Guwahati. The upgraded terminal boasts eco-friendly features, doubling airport capacity and fostering better connectivity, tourism, trade, and employment in the northeastern region. The inauguration event was attended by prominent officials, including Arunachal Pradesh’s Deputy Chief Minister, Minister of Tourism & Civil Aviation, and Members of Parliament.
