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The Meghalaya High Court has directed the state government to speed up land acquisition for the proposed expansion of the airport near Shillong, highlighting the need for timely action to boost regional connectivity and economic growth. The court noted that delays in completing acquisition procedures and paying compensation to landowners were slowing down the project. It asked authorities to fast-track pending payments, clear administrative hurdles, and set a clear timeline for completion. The airport expansion is expected to increase passenger capacity, allow larger aircraft, and improve flight frequency. Once completed, the project is likely to strengthen tourism, trade, and overall infrastructure development across Meghalaya and the wider northeastern region.
The Meghalaya High Court has directed the state government to expedite the acquisition of land required for the proposed expansion of the airport near Shillong, stressing the importance of timely execution to enhance regional connectivity and support economic development.
During hearings, the court noted that delays in completing land acquisition formalities and disbursing compensation to affected landowners were impeding progress on the airport expansion project. The petition filed by local stakeholders highlighted that prolonged procedural steps and pending payments were creating uncertainty, hindering infrastructure development that is seen as vital to improving air services in the northeastern region.
In its order, the High Court urged the authorities to move swiftly to resolve outstanding land acquisition matters, including fast-tracking compensation disbursements and clearing administrative formalities. The bench emphasised that while ensuring fair rehabilitation and due process for landowners is essential, the state must also prioritise the strategic objective of airport expansion for the larger public good.
Officials were instructed to coordinate with relevant departments to remove bottlenecks and provide a clear timeline for the completion of acquisition activities. The court's directive aims to ensure that necessary land parcels are made available without further undue delay, enabling construction agencies to undertake expansion works as planned.
The Shillong airport expansion is expected to increase passenger handling capacity and improve connectivity across the northeast and beyond, supporting tourism, trade and regional integration. With enhanced infrastructure, the airport is anticipated to accommodate larger aircraft and more frequent flight services, which proponents say will benefit local businesses and travellers alike.
By pressing for a swift acquisition process, the High Court has underscored the need for balanced action that upholds landowner rights while advancing infrastructure projects of strategic importance to the state and the region.
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