India's highest airfield, Nyoma in Ladakh, becomes fully operational
What's the story
India's highest airfield, the Nyoma Advanced Landing Ground (ALG), has become fully operational. Situated at an altitude of about 13,700 feet (4,175 meters) in eastern Ladakh, the airfield is now India's closest to the Line of Actual Control (LAC). The newly constructed three-kilometer runway will facilitate the quick mobilization of defense forces and enhance strategic capabilities along the northern border.
Project significance
Know more about Nyoma ALG
The Nyoma ALG project was sanctioned in 2021 with a budget of around ₹214 crore. It is specifically built to facilitate emergency operations and heavy aircraft movement under extreme high-altitude conditions. The airfield's location near the LAC makes it a strategic asset, allowing faster deployment of troops, equipment, and supplies to remote border regions.
Border infrastructure
Strategic asset amid India-China tensions
The completion of Nyoma comes as India steps up infrastructure development along the LAC, especially after tensions with China. In the last four years, India has expedited the construction of roads, tunnels, and bridges across Ladakh to improve connectivity and military logistics. The successful execution of this project under difficult terrain shows India's resolve to strengthen border defense.
Connectivity boost
Potential for civilian flights
The government's focus on improving connectivity in Ladakh is aimed at both strategic and civilian purposes. The airfield will serve as a key node for the Indian Air Force while also being a potential hub for civilian flights. This will improve accessibility and welfare for communities in the remote Himalayan region.