The state government is gearing up for a significant expansion of Shillong airport, with Deputy Chief Minister in-charge of Transport, Sniawbhalang Dhar, expressing optimism about completing the project within three years.
The ambitious plan requires 22-23 acres of land and aims to facilitate the landing of larger aircraft, promising to be a game changer for regional connectivity and economic growth.
Dhar shared that the project has received verbal approval from the Union Minister of Civil Aviation during a recent visit to the state. However, he acknowledged the challenges posed by procedural requirements, including land acquisition, preparation of the detailed project report (DPR), estimates, and work allotment.
“Verbally it has been approved by the minister (of civil aviation) during his visit (to the state) so after the acquisition we will process (the proposal) accordingly and officially,” He said.
“– so within three years it should be (completed) but we will try to complete it at the earliest possible as it will benefit our people,” Dhar emphasized, underlining the transformative impact the expansion will have on the region.