The High Court of Meghalaya has issued directives to fast-track the expansion of Shillong Airport, addressing concerns over frequent flight cancellations and limited connectivity to the state capital. A division bench comprising Chief Justice IP Mukerji and Justice W Diengdoh emphasized the urgent need for airport development to accommodate larger aircraft beyond the current ATR operations.
The court noted that Shillong Airport’s small size and short runway limit its operations to light aircraft, causing great inconvenience to people and tourists, and detrimental to the state’s economy and general welfare. The expansion project requires approximately 22 acres of land, with 10.3 acres from the Defense Department and 11.7 acres from private landowners.
The State government plans to purchase the private land through private treaty negotiations, pending cabinet approval. The court has directed the cabinet to decide within three weeks and, if approved, complete the land transfer within eight additional weeks. The Defense Department has already agreed to provide its portion on a leave and license basis.
A tender valued at Rs 150 crores has been issued for the construction work, which would take approximately 18 months to complete after an agreement is signed. The project still requires environmental clearance and approval from the Director General of Civil Aviation.
The High Court has instructed both central authorities to expedite their approval processes and emphasized that efforts should be made to make the expanded airport operational before the estimated two-year timeline. The case will be heard next on May 15, 2025, when the court expects progress reports from both state and central agencies on actions taken in compliance with the order.