A joint team of Indian Air Force (IAF) and National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) engineers has started scouting locations for a new airstrip on the Buxar-Bhagalpur Expressway. They are looking for a straight 5-kilometer stretch that can be used for emergency landings. This facility is being designed to handle advanced fighter jets like the Rafale and Mirage.
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Which locations are being surveyed for the airstrip?
The engineers are currently checking three potential sites along the expressway to find the best spot. This airstrip will be part of the 82.44 km greenfield section between Mokama and Munger. The main focus is to find a place where dividers can be removed and utilities like electric poles are relocated. This ensures a clear path for wide-wing fighter jets to land safely.
Once the construction is finished, this road will be officially included in Air Force navigation maps. It will serve as a strategic shadow runway for the IAF. This is important because it is close to airbases in Bihta and Gorakhpur. The road may also be used for fighter jet demonstrations during Air Force Day.
What is the cost and current status of the project?
The estimated capital cost for this specific section is approximately ₹4,447.38 crore. The project is being developed under the Hybrid Annuity Mode. However, the construction is facing some delays right now. Official rules state that 90% of land acquisition must be completed before full work begins, and this target has not been met yet.
This project is different from the previous proposal on the Ekchari-Mahagama NH 133 route. That plan was cancelled after an Air Force report found it unsuitable due to small bridges and underpasses. The new design on the Buxar-Bhagalpur route aims to avoid these issues to support heavy aircraft like the Sukhoi-30 MKI.
