Shillong, Feb 24: Expenditure on consultancy services is largely driven by the complexity of reforms in aviation, policy design and infrastructure development, Deputy Chief Minister in-charge Transport Sngiawbhalang Dhar told the Assembly, defending such expenditure by the department.
In his reply to a query in the assembly on Tuesday, Dhar said 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 Rs 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.
Land for Shillong Airport expansion cleared
The state government has completed acquisition of private land and secured defence clearance to expand Shillong Airport, paving the way for narrow-body aircraft operations, Deputy Chief Minister in-charge Transport Sniawbhalang Dhar told the assembly in reply to a query in the assembly on Tuesday.
Umroi airport currently operates only ATR-72 aircraft due to its 1,829-metre runway.
“The government, in partnership with AAI, has prepared a Master Plan…to increase the total length to 2,400 metres,” he said, enabling landing on runway 22 and take-off from runway 04.
The expansion requires 22 additional acres — 11.75 acres privately owned and 10.3 acres held by Defence.
The deputy commissioner, Ri-Bhoi, completed acquisition of the private parcel on January 28, 2026, at a cost of Rs 72.17 crore including compensation, and transfer to AAI is under way.
For defence land, Dhar said the Ministry of Defence granted Advance Working Permission on April 17, 2025, subject to equal-value exchange. The state has identified 7.7255 acres at Umroi Madan village, with acquisition estimated at ₹23.55 crore.
“MoU signing to take place in March 2026 with Defence,” he added.
Calling the project strategically important, Dhar said expanded capacity would enhance tourism and investment in Meghalaya.
“The provision made under Demand No.04 is justified, lawful, and in the larger public interest,” he said.
