A Correspondent, Shillong: In a significant development aimed at expediting the long-delayed expansion of Shillong Airport, the Meghalaya High Court has directed the state government to transfer the required land to airport authorities within two months. The order was passed by a division bench comprising Chief Justice Indra Prasanna Mukerji and Justice Wanlura Diengdoh during a hearing that included Additional Advocate General K. Khan, Deputy Solicitor General N. Mozika, and Advocate and Amicus Curiae P. Yobin. In a firm move to prevent further delays, the court warned that if the state government fails to act swiftly, it would consider appointing a Special Officer or Commissioner to facilitate the land purchase directly from individual owners. This would ensure the timely handover of land necessary for the airport’s expansion. The court referred to its earlier directive dated April 30, 2025, in which it asked the state and central agencies to submit progress reports on land acquisition efforts. During the latest hearing, the Additional Advocate General admitted that acquisition under the Land Acquisition Act could be lengthy, but noted that the government is pursuing a faster route through private treaty—direct purchase from landowners—pending Cabinet approval. While stressing the need to follow legal formalities, the bench made it clear that the most critical requirement is the timely transfer of land. Any challenges or delays must be immediately reported to the court. In addition to land handover, the court addressed technical issues affecting the airport’s flight path. The Deputy Solicitor General informed the court that obstructions exist and must be removed by the state government. The court directed immediate consultation with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to resolve these concerns. Furthermore, the bench instructed the central government to move forward with the tendering process for airport infrastructure development during this two-month window so that construction can begin as soon as the land is handed over. The court concluded by expressing hope that major progress will be visible by July 15, 2025, bringing the long-awaited expansion of Shillong Airport closer to reality.
0 Comments