Meghalaya HC Urges Accelerated Expansion of Shillong Airport

Shillong, Aug 14 (PTI) The Meghalaya High Court criticized both the Centre and the state government for the slow progress in expanding the Shillong airport, despite ongoing judicial directions aimed at accelerating the process. A division bench comprising Chief Justice Indra Prasanna Mukerji and Justice Wanlura Diengdoh expressed concern on Wednesday, highlighting that while both governments recognize the runway's crucial expansion to accommodate larger aircraft, the pace of their actions reflects a typical bureaucratic sluggishness, rather than the urgency required for such a critical project. The court noted that Rs 72.17 crore has been allocated to the District Rural Development Agency (DRDA) to acquire 11.75 acres of land from private owners. However, there has been no progress in executing sale or transfer agreements as authorities remain mired in preliminary demarcation activities. Deputy Solicitor General Nitesh Mozika informed the court that the Airports Authority of India (AAI) can only proceed with the construction contract after obtaining three prerequisites: clearance from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), environmental clearance, and the finalization of land acquisition. He noted that environmental clearance is anticipated by October 31, but the DGCA approval is still pending. Given these circumstances, the court directed that the usual governmental pace must be quickened. It is imperative for this project, essential for the state’s welfare, to be completed without further delay, emphasized the High Court. The court underlined the necessity for both central and state authorities to work in unison to remove obstacles and ensure the airport's expansion proceeds unhindered, as it is crucial for better connectivity and economic progress. The court has instructed the Centre and the state to submit action-taken reports before the next hearing planned for December 8. Currently, the Shillong airport, located in Umroi, can only accommodate smaller aircraft due to runway constraints, resulting in most travelers relying on the Guwahati airport, located about 100 km away.

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