Shillong, Nov 26: In a step further towards expansion of Shillong Airport, the state government has approved purchase of land for swapping with defence land required for the project.
“We have taken up the proposal for purchase of land for exchange with defence land for the expansion of the Shillong Airport,” Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma told reporters after a cabinet meeting held at iconic Ward’s Lake on Wednesday.
Expansion of the airport will facilitate landing of larger aircraft, which is expected to transform the state’s tourism scenario and have overall positive impact on the state’s economy.
Deputy Chief Minister in-charge Transport, Sniawbhalang Dhar, will engage in discussion with the local community and local headmen for smooth purchase and exchange of land, he said.
A meeting will be held on Friday to further resolve issues raised by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
Earlier, the Chief Minister held a meeting with officials from Airport Authority of India (AAI), Civil Aviation and Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
He said Friday’s meeting may give go ahead to the tendering process and the contractor could be brought on board by Airport Authority of India (AAI) by the end of this year.
The Chief Minister also reminded that the airport expansion project will be completed within 15 months of starting the work and thus the new airport is expected by March 2027.
He said concerns related to landing area as expressed by DGCA will also be taken up in Friday’s meeting.
