The Stalled Expansion of Dimapur Airport: A Symptom of Institutional Inertia

The prolonged delay in the development of Dimapur airport, a critical infrastructure project for Nagaland's economic future, has once again brought into focus the need for coordination between state and central institutions.

Impasse at the Heart of the Airport Expansion

At the center of the impasse lies the failure to hand over 18.8 acres currently under the occupation of the Assam Rifles Training Centre (ARTC) to the Airports Authority of India (AAI). This delay is preventing the commencement of Phase-I of the airport expansion, casting a long shadow over the entire `400-crore project envisioned to be completed in three phases within three years from 2024.

Alternative Land Allotted, but Land Remains Un-transferred

The Assam Rifles has already been allotted alternative land at Shokhuvi village in Chmoukedima district, where a new training center and school have been constructed and are now fully operational. However, out of the original 147 acres, 18.8 acres remain un-transferred, holding hostage critical infrastructure work.

Compensation Demands and Due Diligence Questions

The ARTC is demanding Rs.16 crore for some of the buildings in the occupied area. A joint inspection reportedly found the buildings constructed in the 70s to be dilapidated and unoccupied. Shockingly, the estimates were prepared as per 2023-24 Schedule of Rate, raising serious questions about due diligence, fiscal prudence, and intent.

A High-level Meeting and the MHA's Role

A high-level meeting was held to resolve the issue last May. The Assam Rifles expressed willingness to vacate the land but wanted compensation. However, it was pointed out that this was a book transfer between two central government entities-the Assam Rifles and the AAI-and so the question of structural compensation does not arise. The ball, therefore, squarely lies in the MHA's court to issue the necessary clearance for immediate handover.

Implications for the North East and Beyond

The cost of neglect in this situation is evident. Decades later, the stagnation of air connectivity in Dimapur, one of the old World War II airfields, is a stark reminder of missed opportunities. Airports are not mere transit points; they are engines of economic growth, investment, and integration. Safeguarding and developing such public assets is a shared responsibility.

In the broader Indian context, the stalled expansion of Dimapur airport underscores the need for better coordination between state and central institutions, particularly in the North East region, where infrastructure development is crucial for regional integration and economic growth.

A Turning Point for Dimapur Airport

The present moment must serve as a turning point. If awareness has finally reached a critical mass, it must now translate into decisive action-by the state government, by central ministries, and by institutions entrusted with national security-to ensure that Dimapur airport is no longer a symbol of missed opportunities, but of collective resolve and progress.