A pre-feasibility study has found Yoeseltse in Samtse and Samrang in Samdrup Jongkhar suitable for airstrip development, but no final decision has been made, according to the infrastructure and transport minister. The study indicates that these locations have favourable ground profiles and lengths with no significant obstacles in the vicinity, making them viable options.
Following feasibility studies conducted across various potential sites in the country by the infrastructure and transport ministry, Yoeseltse in Samtse was identified as one of the most viable locations for airstrip development.
The news has sparked excitement among the residents of Yoeseltse, who foresee significant socio-economic benefits from the project.
“With the development of an airport, new services like better roads, water supply, and employment opportunities will come in, bringing development to the village. Ultimately, the people here will benefit,” said Bhim Pradhan, a resident.
“If an airport is built here, there will obviously be development in the village. Our children will reap most of the benefits. We hope they will get better education and jobs here,” said Etawa Uraon, a resident.
In the east, Samrang in Samdrup Jongkhar was also identified as a feasible location for airstrip development, offering similar advantages for regional growth and connectivity.
While acknowledging that these locations have been identified for airstrip development, the Minister for Infrastructure and Transport during the Meet the Press session yesterday, stressed that an official confirmation is still pending.
“Experts say, these locations were identified due to their capacity to accommodate larger aircraft, including the potential for international flights in the future. The sites also offer a land area of about 250 metres, making them viable candidates for long-term aviation infrastructure development.”
He added that additional assessments, including topographical, meteorological, and geotechnical evaluations, are necessary before making a final decision.
For now, the ministry plans to conduct a topographical survey of the two identified sites within this financial year. Additional studies will focus on meteorological and weather feasibility, operational aspects such as flight approach and departure paths, and geotechnical evaluations. To support the operational assessments, experts from airlines will be included in the team.
Apart from, Yoeseltse and Samrang, the ministry also conducted onsite feasibility assessments in Phuntshothang in Samdrup Jongkhar, Pongchela and Yangbari in Monggar, Patala in Dagana, Rinchen Bumpa Radi and Woochelo Barsham in Trashigang and Buli in Zhemgang last year.
Passang Dorji, Samtse
