The Indian government has approved the construction of a new ₹13,000 crore dual-use airport on Great Nicobar Island, opting for this greenfield project over the expansion of the existing naval airfield at INS Baaz. This decision is part of the Centre’s ambitious ₹81,000 crore development plan for Great Nicobar, which has been under scrutiny due to environmental concerns.
**Strategic Importance of the Great Nicobar Airport**
The proposed airport, to be located at Chingen near Galathea Bay on the island’s southeastern coast, is expected to serve both civilian and military aviation needs. This dual-use facility aims to bolster India’s strategic presence in the Indian Ocean region, enhancing the nation’s ability to deploy assets, support military operations, and maintain forward logistics.
**Rationale Behind Choosing Chingen Over INS Baaz Expansion**
The decision to build the new airport at Chingen was influenced by several factors:
– **Geographical Limitations of INS Baaz**: The existing naval air station at INS Baaz faces challenges such as high terrain, shallow coastline, and limited expansion potential. These constraints would require extensive dredging and hill-cutting to accommodate wide-bodied aircraft, making the expansion less feasible.
– **Environmental Considerations**: The Chingen site offers a more suitable location for the airport, potentially minimizing environmental impact compared to the expansion of INS Baaz.
**Components of the ₹81,000 Crore Great Nicobar Development Plan**
The development plan encompasses several key infrastructure projects:
– **International Container Transshipment Terminal**: Aimed at enhancing maritime trade and logistics capabilities.
– **International Airport**: The newly approved dual-use airport at Chingen.
– **Power Plant**: To meet the energy requirements of the island’s development.
– **Township**: To accommodate the growing population and workforce associated with these developments.
These projects are spread across 166.10 square kilometers, with 130.75 square kilometers designated as forest land and 84.10 square kilometers falling under tribal territory.
**Environmental and Social Implications**
The development plan has faced criticism from environmental groups and political opponents concerned about its impact on the ecologically sensitive island. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has raised concerns about the project, alleging that it would lead to the felling of 1.5 crore trees and benefit a single businessman. He also questioned the necessity of the project, pointing out that India is already constructing a major transshipment facility in Kerala.
**Projected Timeline and Future Prospects**
The dual-use airport at Chingen is expected to be operational within the next five years. This development is anticipated to significantly improve India’s ability to deploy assets, support military operations, maintain forward logistics, and respond rapidly to developments in the southeastern Indian Ocean region.
The project is also expected to boost India’s maritime presence in the Indo-Pacific region, enhancing the nation’s strategic reach and economic influence.
**Conclusion**
The approval of the ₹13,000 crore dual-use airport at Chingen marks a significant step in India’s strategic and economic development plans for Great Nicobar Island. While the project promises enhanced connectivity and defense capabilities, it also raises important environmental and social considerations that continue to be subjects of public discourse.
