SHILLONG, FEB 24: Deputy Chief Minister in-charge Transport Sniawbhalang Dhar on Tuesday defended the department’s expenditure on consultancy services, saying it was driven by the complexity of reforms in aviation, policy design and infrastructure development.

Replying to a cut motion, Dhar told the Assembly the consultants are supporting Meghalaya’s aviation vision — expansion of Shillong Airport, operationalisation of Baljek Airport and heliports in Shillong and Tura.

“The consultancy team has focused on coordinating with the various agencies involved, supporting project monitoring, and ensuring implementation activities progress in accordance with the planned schedule,” he said.

He added the same team helped frame the Meghalaya Vehicle Scrappage Policy 2025, the Motor Cab and Motorcycle Rental Rules 2025, and the Chief Minister’s Regional Transport Scheme 2025.

The engagement runs for 24 months from March 1, 2024, to February 28, 2026, with three consultants deployed full-time.

The total contract value is ₹3.03 crore, with payments released monthly against invoices and progress reports. Dhar said the specialised expertise was necessary for sustained advisory and project-management support as the state pushes multi-modal transport reforms.

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