Kohima: The Nagaland government is pushing a 21.2 crore infrastructure project to overhaul its civil aviation network. The Transport Department issued a tender on July 17 for the project, which aims to beef up emergency response, tourism, and passenger transit. Work must finish within 24 months of the contract award.
Nagaland started helicopter services back in 2007. Demand has since surged, but the state lacks the gear to keep up. The document noted that existing aviation infrastructure remains inadequate to support growing operational requirements, citing an acute shortage of helipad facilities and allied infrastructure.
The plan targets 10 new helipad sites. Seven will land in sub-divisional headquarters at Tening, Tuli, Tobu, Pungro, Bhandari, Mangkolemba, and Tamlu. Three more will serve tourist hotspots at Doyang, Longwa, and Dzukou. Crews will also upgrade existing sites at Lower Tizu, Aitepyong, Shilloi, and Satakha.
The state is also installing Aviation Turbine Fuel stations at the Chümoukedima Heliport plus Mon and Kiphire. These stations will help helicopters stay in the air longer. Each new helipad features a 30-metre landing area and an 84.3 square metre building. These halls include reception desks, security zones, VIP lounges, and specialized toilets. The work covers roads, parking, drainage, and fire safety.
Nagaland currently operates two choppers under a four-year deal with M/s Thumby Aviation Pvt Ltd, active since January 10, 2024. The fleet serves 20 sectors with weekly flights and charter missions. Subsidized rates exist for patients and district travel, while VIPs and private clients pay full fare. Bidding on the new tender wraps up on August 11.
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