AIZAWL, Feb 8: Civil society organizations in Mizoram, led by the NGO Coordination Committee (NGOCC), have urged Chief Minister Lalduhoma to reconsider the state government’s decision to hand over Lengpui Airport in Aizawl to the Indian Air Force (IAF).

The NGOCC, a coalition of major civil society organizations and student bodies headed by the Central Young Mizo Association (CYMA), met with the Chief Minister on Friday to express their concerns. The leaders emphasized that the airport is an important asset for the state and should not be transferred to the IAF.

During the meeting, Chief Minister Lalduhoma explained that Lengpui Airport is the only airport in the country owned and managed by a state government. He acknowledged that while the government desires to upgrade the airport, financial constraints have hindered its ability to maintain and improve the infrastructure. However, he assured the civil society leaders that the state government is committed to continuing its ownership and maintenance of the airport.

Lalduhoma also stated that the state government would seek funds from the finance commission to upgrade the airport and improve its runway to meet required standards. He emphasized that the government remains focused on ensuring the airport remains functional and accessible for the people of Mizoram.

The Mizo National Front (MNF), a regional political party, has also expressed opposition to the plan to hand over the airport to the IAF.

Finance Adviser to the Chief Minister, TBC Lalvenchhunga, who heads the Working Committee on Lengpui Airport, confirmed that the state cabinet has not yet made a final decision on the matter. He added that a draft Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) for the potential handover of the airport to the IAF has not yet been completed.