A team from Pawan Hans Ltd. arrived in Kohima on 18th February 2025 to assess infrastructure and feasibility for the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) UDAN. The inspection covers five districts—Tuensang, Mokokchung, Zunheboto, Kohima, and Phek—which have been selected for the first phase of the scheme aimed at enhancing regional air connectivity.
The initiative is designed to improve accessibility and economic opportunities for the residents of Nagaland’s remote areas, providing a crucial alternative to the state’s challenging road infrastructure. In a meeting with the inspection team, Transport Secretary Robert Longchari outlined key developments and challenges faced in the project’s implementation.
While most of the infrastructure is in place, Longchari noted that financial approvals, along with minor modifications like fencing and helipad upgrades, still need to be completed. Additionally, legal and land acquisition hurdles need to be addressed before operations can commence.
Longchari emphasized that the helicopter service would not only benefit district headquarters but also remote subdivisions, particularly in medical emergencies and subsidized transport. He added that Pawan Hans is evaluating the existing facilities and plans to construct additional helipads as part of the scheme’s expansion.