After months of consultations, technical evaluations and expert presentations, the Shillong Cantonment Board has formally approved the draft building by-laws with the aim to modernise infrastructure regulation within the cantonment area.
For 53 years this area faced major challenges when it came to construction, leaving the place in a very shabby condition.
The draft by-laws, developed in alignment with the Union Ministry of Defence’s directives and modeled on the TERI report and Meghalaya Building By-Laws 2021, incorporate localised requirements along with critical planning parameters like Floor Space Index (FSI) algorithms.
The board engaged the expertise of L Rymbui, architect from the Meghalaya Urban Development Authority (MUDA), to lead the technical drafting and refinement process. Rymbui’s involvement included multiple consultation rounds, culminating in a final presentation before the board on July 1.
South Shillong MLA and invited board member, Sanbor Shullai, who was present during the final deliberation, praised the collaborative process, saying, “This is a commendable achievement finally after 53 years. The draft by-laws reflect not only the technical depth but also the ground realities of Shillong Cantonment. I deeply appreciate the commitment of all stakeholders, especially the technical insight provided by MUDA through L Rymbui.”
The approved by-laws will now be forwarded to the Principal Director, Defence Estates, Eastern Command for onward submission to the Director General, Defence Estates (DGDE), duly recommended by the GOC-in-C, HQ Eastern Command.
Shullai said that in motorable areas, G+3 (four-storey) structures will be allowed, while G+2 (three-storey) constructions will be permitted in non-motorable zones, up to a plot size of 1,000 sq ft.
He added that efforts are on to meet Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to fast-track the final clearance. “If things move on schedule, residents can start applying under the new norms within the next two to three months,” he said, calling it a “historic moment” for those living in the cantonment.
