Shillong, Oct 25: The Meghalaya state government has announced that an additional 16-17 acres of land is needed to expand Shillong Airport, following a recent survey report. This land will support the runway extension and essential safety zones required for accommodating larger aircraft.

Urban Affairs Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar stated that we are yet to hold a joint meeting with the Centre. “Once we receive approval from the Government of India, we can move forward with acquiring the additional land.”

The state plans to invite the Union Minister to Shillong for an on-site discussion to assess these expansion needs. Dhar noted, “The consultation has submitted its report, and feasibility is there, provided the government grants certain exemptions.” These exemptions are crucial to advancing the project.

Dhar also said they are yet to meet with the Union Civil Aviation Minister to update him on the latest report from the consultation. “Hopefully, it will move in the right direction” he said.

Following a recent meeting chaired by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, the state cabinet approved the initiation of the land acquisition process for both Shillong Airport and Baljek Airport. Sangma confirmed the cabinet has given the go-ahead to begin the land acquisition process for Shillong Airport. The government is also allocating sufficient funds for the acquisition.

Furthermore, the state will seek formal clearance from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) based on the latest feasibility assessment to support larger aircraft operations at Shillong Airport.

Read: Four Bangladeshi nationals sneak into India, nabbed near Byrnihat by Meghalaya police

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