The government has approved construction of a new Rs 13,000-crore greenfield civil-military airport under the Great Nicobar project rather than expanding the naval airfield at INS Baaz. The choice follows heightened political debate over the Rs 81,000-crore development on the ecologically sensitive island.
Officials said the dual-use facility will be built at Chingen near Galathea Bay to serve both civilian and military flights. It is expected to strengthen India’s strategic infrastructure in the eastern Indian Ocean near the Malacca Strait. The plan ends earlier proposals to extend the 4,500-foot runway at INS Baaz in Campbell Bay.
Studies showed that extending the existing runway to about 10,000 feet would face terrain and navigation issues plus high infrastructure costs. Officials also found that expansion would affect tribal areas, forests and wildlife more than a new site.
The airport is due for completion in five years and will stay under naval control while supporting civilian operations. The greenfield location allows future growth and improves military reach, surveillance and logistics in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
The airport forms one of four main elements in the Great Nicobar Island Development Project, which also includes a transshipment port, power facilities and township development at an estimated total cost of Rs 81,000 crore.
The announcement follows recent criticism from opposition leader Rahul Gandhi after his visit to the islands. He called the project one of the largest scams and alleged it would destroy rainforests, fell over 1.5 crore trees, damage coral reefs and displace indigenous groups including the Shompen tribe.
The government maintains the project is vital for strategic presence in the Indo-Pacific and better connectivity for remote territories. The Congress has demanded a parliamentary debate and raised concerns over environmental clearances, costs, transparency and tribal rights.
