Meghalaya Seeks Defence Ministry Support for Airport Expansion, Strategic Road Projects

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has sought the intervention of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to expedite several key infrastructure projects in the state, including the long-awaited expansion of Shillong Airport. The request was made during Singh’s visit to Shillong, where he participated in International Yoga Day celebrations alongside state leaders and defence personnel. Sangma said the state government requires the cooperation of the Defence Ministry for a number of projects and expressed confidence that the Centre would continue extending support for improving connectivity in Meghalaya. The chief minister noted that the Defence Minister responded positively to the proposals and assured assistance in advancing them.

Apart from the airport expansion project, Sangma also discussed the proposed four-laning of the Rilbong–Barik Point corridor in Shillong and strategic road connectivity projects along the India-Bangladesh border, including the Ranikor–Ratacherra link. The state government believes these projects are crucial for improving transportation, boosting economic development and enhancing connectivity in border regions. Expansion of Shillong Airport is seen as a priority initiative to enable larger aircraft operations and improve air access to Meghalaya, supporting tourism and business growth in the northeastern state.