Dimapur: The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has laid out an ambitious roadmap to transform Dimapur Airport into a key regional hub, with substantial infrastructure upgrades and initiatives aimed at economic growth. The Regional Executive Director of AAI’s North East Region, M. Raja Kishore, recently visited Dimapur Airport to inspect the ongoing capacity expansion project and held discussions with state leaders and stakeholders to address critical development needs.
During his visit, Kishore assured that the renovation and capacity expansion of the Dimapur Airport terminal building would be completed by March 2025. This assurance followed a review meeting with the Airport Director and the Dimapur team, where ongoing progress and future plans were evaluated.
In a high-level meeting with Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, Kishore discussed land acquisition challenges essential for achieving the airport’s transformation into a facility meeting international standards.
The Chief Minister pledged to address the issues swiftly to facilitate the airport’s development and improve its capacity to handle increased aircraft operations.
The discussions also explored opportunities to leverage the state’s tourism potential and organic cargo exports. Local chambers of commerce were engaged to provide suggestions aimed at enhancing business opportunities, creating employment, and improving connectivity through Dimapur Airport.
The Business Association of Nagas (BAN), led by its President Mongkum Jamir, also met Kishore to emphasize the need for extensive infrastructure development at Dimapur Airport.
Highlighting its role as one of the oldest airports in the region, Jamir underscored the airport’s potential to drive Nagaland’s economic growth if modern infrastructure is introduced. BAN advocated for several improvements, including enhanced cargo handling facilities, better road connectivity, and initiatives to promote local entrepreneurship.
The delegation stressed that transforming Dimapur Airport into a hub for regional connectivity would not only benefit Nagaland but also neighbouring states like Manipur and Assam.
AAI’s transformation blueprint for Dimapur Airport includes the development of a state-of-the-art cargo facility with cold storage for perishable goods, enabling swift nationwide distribution of local produce like premium fruits and vegetables.
The airport’s road connectivity to the national highway will be upgraded to a four-lane stretch, ensuring smoother access for travellers, while internal roads leading to the airport’s arrival and departure sections will undergo significant quality improvements. Passenger amenities, operational efficiency, and aesthetic upgrades will also be undertaken to align the airport with modern aviation standards.
In addition, BAN proposed a dedicated stall at the airport for showcasing and selling products by local entrepreneurs, highlighting Nagaland’s craftsmanship and promoting small businesses. Kishore welcomed the idea and instructed the Airport Director to facilitate the project under the Prime Minister’s scheme to encourage local businesses.
Kishore reiterated AAI’s commitment to collaborating with local stakeholders and emphasized that the Dimapur Airport project would play a pivotal role in unlocking the economic and logistical potential of the region.
The transformation efforts aim to position Dimapur Airport as a vital hub for tourism, cargo operations, and regional connectivity. With these plans in motion, Dimapur Airport is set to become a cornerstone of development in Nagaland, fostering growth, empowering local entrepreneurs, and elevating the region’s connectivity and economic prospects.
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