India is taking decisive action to bring back to life a network of forgotten airstrips from the Second World War. These airfields, scattered across eastern and northeastern states, will see new purpose. The move responds directly to rising security concerns along the border with Bangladesh. It also reflects a renewed strategic focus on the vital Siliguri corridor.
Restoring Defunct Airfields for Regional Strength
The central government is planning to restore several defunct airfields in West Bengal, Assam, and Tripura. Many of these sites were originally built during World War II. Official sources confirm the initiative aims to strengthen regional connectivity. It will ensure operational readiness in states that share a border with Bangladesh. This comes at a time when bilateral relations between the two nations have hit a low point.
Addressing Threats to the Chicken's Neck
The decision follows unease over Bangladesh's recent activities. Bangladesh has started redeveloping the Lalmonirhat airbase in Rangpur. This location is close to the Siliguri corridor. Often called the "Chicken's Neck," this narrow stretch of land connects India's northeast with the mainland. Over the past year, Bangladesh has repeatedly issued threats to sever this crucial corridor.
India has already increased its military presence in the region. New Army bases have been established at Chopra in West Bengal, Kishanganj in Bihar, and Lachit Borphukan in Assam's Dhubri district. The revival of airstrips forms part of this broader security push.
Key Airstrips Identified for Renovation
The airstrips identified for renovation include specific locations in key districts. In Jalpaiguri, Ambari and Panga are on the list. Balurghat in South Dinajpur and Jhaljhalia in Malda are also slated for work. Dhubri in Assam is another site marked for revival. Meanwhile, Cooch Behar in West Bengal and Rupsi in Assam's Kokrajhar district are already operational.
Historical Significance and Modern Relevance
During World War II, the northeast served as a crucial logistical base for Allied forces. Operations against Japanese troops in Burma, now Myanmar, relied on this region. Tripura, Assam, and Bengal hosted dozens of airstrips that supported the Burma Campaign. They were vital for the China–Burma–India theatre and supply routes like the Ledo Road.
Several of these bases hosted American forces, including B-24 Liberators and B-29 Superfortresses. Airfields like Hailakandi and Dudhkundi played key roles in bombing, transport, and special operations. Rupsi, constructed by the British to supply Allied troops, later served civilian aviation. It was revived under the UDAN scheme in 2021 for both commercial and military use.
Strategic Depth and National Security
By restoring these historic airfields, India achieves multiple objectives. It reconnects remote regions, improving accessibility and development. More importantly, it reinforces strategic depth in an area with profound historical significance. This region once shaped the outcome of a world war. Today, it may again prove critical to national security, given the evolving geopolitical landscape.
The revival of WWII-era airstrips is a clear signal of India's commitment to safeguarding its borders. It leverages historical infrastructure to address contemporary security challenges, ensuring preparedness in a sensitive and strategically vital part of the country.
