India Eyes Strengthening LAC Air Infrastructure: IAF Mulls Taking Over Three Uttarakhand Airstrips, New Spiti Airfield Planned

In an effort to enhance its airfield capabilities along the China border, the Ministry of Defence and Indian Air Force are planning to take control of three airstrips in Uttarakhand and build a new airstrip in Himachal Pradesh’s Spiti area.

The talks with state government for taking over the three airstrips in Pithoragarh, Gauchar, and Dharasu in Uttarakhand are in advanced stage, Tribune India reported citing sources.

Meanwhile, a feasibility study has been conducted by a team from the Defence Ministry for setting up a new airstrip at Rangrik in Himachal Pradesh's Spiti valley.

Last week, Air Chief Marshal A P Singh highlighted China’s rapid progress in building infrastructure on its side of the LAC.

“We are matching up; we are beefing up capacities of airfields and also plan to utilise civil infrastructure and landing grounds in the central sector,” he said.

He also noted that discussions with state governments to either take control of these airfields or get assurances for their availability for military use.

The central sector covers the LAC along Himachal and Uttarakhand, and is of great strategic importance.

Pithoragarh in eastern Uttarakhand already has a functional civilian airstrip, while Gauchar is close to Kedarnath, and Dharasu lies on the route to the Gangotri glacier.

Aircraft like the C-130J, used for special operations, have earlier landed at these airstrips.

These facilities, situated on state-owned land, have been key to military operations in the region.

The Indian Air Force could also turn to fully functional civilian airstrips in Himachal Pradesh—such as those at Jubbarhatti, Kangra, and Bhuntar—in emergency situations. These airstrips are capable of supporting C-130J aircraft.

Airbases like Adampur and Ambala offer security coverage for both the western and Chinese fronts, while Chandigarh airbase plays a crucial role in providing supplies to eastern Ladakh.

Additionally, airbases in Bareilly and Sarsawa in Uttar Pradesh, focus on the China border.

The proposed airstrip at Rangrik is considered an essential project due to its proximity to Chepzi in Tibet, an area frequently patrolled by Chinese forces near Chumar and Demchok.

Apart from serving military purposes, the airstrip could also support civilian air traffic, especially during winters when the Spiti valley is cut off due to snow.

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