In an important move to enhance defence preparedness and emergency response, the government has announced the development of special stretches of highway in Bihar, which can be used as emergency landing runways for fighter jets. As part of the move, at least three expressways and highways in the state will be made capable of handling fighter jet landings in emergency situations.
The special stretches, which will be designated as Emergency Landing Facilities (ELFs), will enable fighter jets from the Indian Air Force to make emergency landings and take-offs when airbase conditions are unfavorable. According to the announcement, the stretches of the highway in Bihar will be made suitable for landing fighter jets, which will include the development of the highway surfaces, the extent of the stretches, and the minimization of obstructions.
The move is part of the national plan to enhance the defence capabilities in the country, which will include the development of highway stretches in other states as well, including Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, where fighter jets have successfully made trial landings on the expressways in the state.
Apart from defense, these highway runways are also seen playing a vital role in the event of natural calamities and emergencies. For example, in the event of floods and earthquakes, these runways may prove to be extremely useful in providing immediate aid and relief to those affected.
However, it has also been clarified that these highways would continue to operate like regular highways, and the use of these highways as runways would be applicable only in emergencies and military exercises. During such times, the flow of traffic would be halted, and the highway would be cleared for use.
Experts believe that this new initiative would prove to be extremely advantageous for the armed forces, allowing them to operate with maximum flexibility and the use of the existing highways.
With this new initiative, Bihar is likely to find a prominent place among other states contributing to the growing defence logistics infrastructure in India. As the project progresses, authorities are ensuring maximum coordination with defence authorities to meet the technical requirements.
With this new initiative, Bihar has become a part of a distinguished list of states that are incorporating innovative ideas and measures to improve security and defence logistics in the country.
