Cabinet approves Rs 3984.86 crore launch pad for ISRO

New Delhi

The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the establishment of a third launch pad (TLP) at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, on Thursday. This new launch pad will support the Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO) Next Generation Launch Vehicles (NGLV) and act as a backup for the existing second launch pad, enhancing the capacity for future human spaceflight missions.

The TLP will be adaptable to various launch vehicles, including NGLV and LVM3, and will accommodate scaled-up NGLV configurations. It is designed to maximize industry participation and leverage ISRO’s expertise in building previous launch pads. The total cost of the project is Rs 3984.86 crore, and it is expected to be completed in 48 months (4 years).

Currently, India relies on two launch pads: the First Launch Pad (FLP) for PSLV and SSLV missions, and the Second Launch Pad (SLP) for GSLV, LVM3, and commercial missions. SLP is also being prepared for the Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission. With India's space ambitions growing, including plans for a space station by 2035 and a lunar landing by 2040, the new TLP will support the required heavier launch vehicles and future space exploration efforts. The project is crucial for ensuring India's space program’s long-term growth and capabilities.

Rahul Gandhi praises ISRO's success

Rahul Gandhi congratulated ISRO on its historic space docking success, making India the fourth nation to master this technology. He praised ISRO scientists for their innovation, dedication, and contribution to India's growing space capabilities. This achievement paves the way for missions like Chandrayaan-4, Gaganyaan, and India’s space station, solidifying India’s position in global space exploration.