Nagaland is looking to expand its connectivity beyond the existing road network, with the State Government pursuing four short landing strips and exploring the development of inland waterways, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio said.
In his Independence Day address on Saturday, Rio said the State Government was actively pursuing the development of four short landing strips at strategic locations in Mokokchung, Mon, Tuensang and Ciethu to improve intra-state air connectivity.
The Chief Minister did not give details on the proposed locations of the landing strips within the respective areas or a timeline for their completion.
The State is also exploring the use of waterways. Rio said a LiDAR survey of the Tizu-Zungki National Waterway has been proposed for a more detailed assessment of the waterway corridor.
LiDAR, or Light Detection and Ranging, is a surveying technology that can be used to map terrain and other physical features in detail. The proposed survey would help the State assess the Tizu-Zungki corridor for possible development.
Separately, the Government is working on the development of three water bodies – Doyang Water Reservoir, Noune Lake and Shilloi Lake – for tourism and water sports.
Rio said the Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for the three projects are in the final stages of preparation.