Mizoram: Row over proposal to hand Lengpui Airport to IAF
What's the story
A political controversy has erupted in Mizoram over the state government's plan to hand over control of Lengpui Airport to the Indian Air Force (IAF).
The opposition party, Mizo National Front (MNF), led by Lalchhandama Ralte, has strongly opposed this move.
Ralte slammed the Zoram People's Movement-led government for proposing this transfer soon after coming to power in December 2023.
Criticism voiced
Opposition leader criticizes government's proposal
Ralte also accused the current government of financial mismanagement and warned that handing over Lengpui Airport to IAF control could have dire consequences.
He noted that 27 IAF-controlled airports across India prioritize military operations over commercial flights, citing Pune, Tezpur, Bagdogra, and Srinagar as examples.
"Frequent fighter jet sorties and airspace restrictions could reduce flight frequency, affecting Mizoram's economic progress," Ralte said.
Public opposition
Civil society groups oppose airport transfer
Several civil society groups in Mizoram have also opposed the proposed airport transfer.
The NGO Coordination Committee (NGOCC), a coalition of major civil societies and student organizations, met Chief Minister Lalduhoma on Friday to express their concerns.
They urged him to explore alternatives for maintaining Lengpui Airport instead of handing it over to the IAF.
Potential impact
Opposition leader's concerns over potential consequences
Ralte also raised concerns over possible noise pollution from military aircraft in Aizawl and surrounding areas.
He proposed that Lengpui and surrounding areas could be high-priority targets during conflicts considering its strategic location near China.
The MNF leader emphasized his party's earlier proposal to expand Lengpui Airport with a second runway and upgrade it into an international airport under India's Act East Policy.