A. F. M. Asad Ullah: For decades, the process of launching Shamshernagar Airport in Moulvibazar has been stuck in promises. Despite announcements from three different ministers during the three terms of the Awami League government, the declarations never materialized. As a result, the recent initiative by the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) to operationalize the airport is also being perceived as yet another assurance by concerned parties.
Residents of Moulvibazar express frustration, saying that while they have heard numerous promises over the years regarding the airport’s reopening, no progress has been made. They are left wondering whether this time the airport will actually open or if the initiative will remain limited to mere assurances.
Tourism stakeholders state that the airport’s opening is essential as it would significantly boost both government revenue and the local tourism industry. They note that a large number of tourists visit Moulvibazar’s various spots daily, making the airport’s operation a timely demand.
Aviation experts emphasize that the district houses several international-standard resorts, drawing numerous tourists. In addition to these resorts, the region’s other attractions also welcome many visitors. Operationalizing Shamshernagar Airport would establish it as a profitable route. It would not only enhance local trade and commerce but also contribute to the socio-economic development of the area while increasing government revenue.
Moulvibazar residents highlight that the district is home to a significant expatriate population working in Europe, America, Japan, Australia, Canada, and the Middle East. Besides serving passengers, the airport also holds strategic military importance due to its geographical location. Hence, its reopening should be prioritized.
According to historical data, Shamshernagar Airport was constructed in 1942, before World War II, as the second-largest airport in Southeast Asia and the largest in the country for military purposes. Built on 622 acres of land acquired from Shamshernagar Tea Estate in Kamalganj Upazila, it features a vast area, wide runways, efficient transport connectivity, and robust infrastructure. The runway is 6,000 feet long and 75 feet wide, capable of accommodating large aircraft, according to aviation experts.
In 1995, after independence, former Finance Minister M. Saifur Rahman launched Aero Bengal Air Service flights at the airport privately. However, the service failed to attract passengers due to insufficient facilities, and all operations ceased eventually.
Currently, a large agricultural farm has been established on the neglected and unused land of the airport. Additionally, an Air Force recruitment office has been set up, and a portion of the runway has undergone minor renovations. Every year, members of the Bangladesh Air Force’s National Cadet Corps Aviation Wing receive training on fire safety, first aid, radar security, and firing drills at the airport.
In 2009, after the Awami League came to power, then-Minister of Civil Aviation and Tourism G. M. Quader announced the airport’s reopening. However, this declaration remained unfulfilled. When the Awami League returned to power for its second term, then-Minister of Civil Aviation and Tourism Rashed Khan Menon announced in 2016 that the airport would reopen. Yet again, no progress was made.
In the third term of the Awami League, State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism Advocate Md. Mahbub Ali announced on August 23, 2023, during a visit to Kulaura, Moulvibazar, that the airport would reopen. However, this promise also remains unfulfilled.
Most recently, on April 27, CAAB announced plans to reopen Shamshernagar Airport along with six other airports in the country. A four-member technical team from CAAB has visited the site and will submit a report to the chairman regarding the airport’s operational feasibility. Local residents are cautiously optimistic but not overly hopeful.
Local resident and professor Md. Sitab Ali remarked, “There have been many announcements in the past, but no action was taken. While we are not overly optimistic this time, we are not entirely pessimistic either. We hope this initiative will be implemented.”
Businessman M. A. Majid commented, “I need to travel to Dhaka every week for business. It takes a lot of time by rail and road. If this airport is operational, businessmen can travel to Dhaka and other parts of the country easily, saving time and boosting economic activities. Therefore, reopening the airport is essential.”
US-Bangla Airlines General Manager (Public Relations) Md. Kamrul Islam said, “Since there is already an airport here, and no new construction is needed, the government can reopen it after renovations. This would increase their revenue while making travel easier for residents of Moulvibazar and Habiganj. It would also expand business opportunities and develop tourism in the region.”
CAAB Chairman Air Vice Marshal Md. Mofidur Rahman Bhuiyan said, “A team is currently assessing the situation at Shamshernagar Airport, including the state of the runway. Once the assessment is complete, we can determine whether the airport is ready for operation.” When asked about a potential opening date, he added, “It is difficult to specify a timeline, but we are trying our best to make the airport operational.”
