Meghalaya High Court Urges State to Prioritize Shillong Airport Development for Improved Connectivity

SHILLONG: Shillong Airport's continuous development has been recognised as a major factor in the state's economic and tourism expansion. It is anticipated that the extension will enable the use of bigger, heavier, and more advanced jet aircraft, which will make it easier to transport both people and goods. The infrastructure and connectivity of the state could be greatly improved by this development.

The state's Advocate General disclosed during a hearing before the Meghalaya High Court that although the necessary land acquisition for the airport's expansion had been completed, the land had not yet been turned over to the airport's management.

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is represented by Dr. N. Mozika, the Deputy Solicitor General of India, who told the court that the concept and plan for the airport's development are presently being examined by the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

The case's Amicus Curiae, P Yobin, underlined the urgency of the airport's development and called for formal notification to the DGCA to guarantee prompt action. In response, Dr. Mozika said that no further alerts were required because the DGCA and the AAI are already working together.

Given the significance of the project, the court called for fast action to be made in order to extend the runway, provide necessary infrastructure, and improve Shillong Airport's overall amenities. Within the following three months, it instructed the state government to make sure the required land is acquired and turned over to the Airports Authority of India.

In addition, after the land handover, the court directed the Director General of Civil Aviation to work with the Airports Authority of India to adopt and carry out a detailed plan for the airport's growth.

Within three months of the state government releasing the land, the entire expansion plan need to be in place. On April 14, 2025, the case will be heard once again to evaluate the state government's and the Airports Authority of India's development. In order to guarantee responsibility and openness in the development of the airport, the court asked that both parties produce a thorough report detailing the steps taken.

ALSO READ:

ALSO WATCH: