Aerotropolis on 2,000-acre on anvil in NE

In its quest to provide non-stop air connectivity in the north-eastern region of the county, the Centre in a latest move, has decided to build an aerotropolis in Assam and has sought 2,000 acres from the state for the purpose, Union Minister, Jayant Sinha said, adding that the issue has been settled during a recent meeting with the state government and the project would be set up on the outskirt of Guwahati city, an official release said, adding that the proposed venture would bring huge benefits to the region in terms of civil aviation and air connectivity. The north-east has potential to be a growth engine of the country by opening road and air links with the South-East Asian countries and the starting direct flights on Guwahati-Bangkok and Guwahati-Singapore routes are also on the anvil, which would increase tourist inflow and trade activities across the region.