The Meghalaya cabinet has approved the proposal for direct purchase of 11.75 acres land required for the expansion of Shillong Airport and finalised compensation of Rs 72.17 crore.
The Airports Authority of India requires a total of 22 acres of land for expansion and development of the airport, out of which the Defence department is already prepared to provide 10.3 acres on leave and licence basis.
The expansion includes a 571-metre extension of the existing runway to a total length of 2,400 metres. This will also facilitate the operation of A-320 type aircraft in Shillong.
In addition, the project involves the expansion of the terminal building and apron, along with various associated infrastructure works. The expansion is expected to substantially enhance connectivity with major metropolitan hubs across India, paving the way for increased tourist inflow, business travel, and regional integration.
Chief Minister Conrad Sangma said a committee was set up, headed by the Deputy Commissioner, which held negotiations with the local people to finalise the rates and compensation.
He said the compensation amount is for the land, trees, crops, and buildings to be acquired for expansion of the runway.
It may be mentioned that in its April 30, 2025 the Meghalaya High Court had directed the State government to take a cabinet decision to approve buying 11.7 acres of land for expansion of the Shillong Airport at Umroi within three weeks.
The court had allowed the State to buy private land after the latter submitted that if land is acquired under the Land Acquisition Act, it would be time consuming.
