Shillong, Jul 23: Meghalaya has sought the center’s support in advancing critical civil aviation projects designed to enhance air connectivity across the state.
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma met Union Minister of Civil Aviation, Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu on July 21 and highlighted several upcoming projects that seek to improve the state’s aviation infrastructure.
Among these is the expansion of Shillong Airport located at Umroi. Sangma said the government has completed necessary preparations, including transferring 22 acres of land to the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and acquiring environmental clearances. The runway expansion work has been awarded, which will facilitate the operations of larger aircraft like the A320 to enable direct flights to major cities and reducing reliance on lengthy travel from Guwahati.
The chief minister emphasised the need for expedited approvals from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to commence the awarded projects.
The state has committed substantial funds, including approximately ₹150 crore for relocating Umden Mission village, to ensure there are no obstructions for flight paths, he said.
Additionally, he informed the union minister of plans to develop Tura’s Baljek Airport into a comprehensive AAI-operated facility, phased to accommodate increasing aircraft sizes over time. Beyond airport expansions, two heliports in Shillong and Tura are underway, with aspirations to develop more sites for enhanced regional connectivity.
