SHILLONG: The Meghalaya government is currently in a state of anticipation as it awaits the crucial feasibility report regarding the operation of larger aircraft at Umroi Airport in Shillong.
Transport Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar has disclosed that the newly appointed consultants have requested an additional two months to finalize and submit the comprehensive report.
Initially, the government had contemplated a plan to remove two hillocks, which were identified as obstacles impeding the landing of larger aircraft at the airport. However, this plan was temporarily shelved due to the significant financial expenses associated with it.
In a notable development from August, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) had communicated its intention to conduct a LiDAR (light detection and ranging) survey at Umroi Airport. The objective of this survey is to assess the feasibility of accommodating wider-bodied aircraft beyond ATR and Bombardier models.
This initiative was prompted by a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) issued by the Meghalaya High Court, which suggested that the survey might need to be outsourced. The AAI is actively taking steps in this direction to comply with the court's order.
The court order conveyed optimism regarding the State's intention not only to enhance existing airports but also to establish an international airport within Meghalaya. The utilization of advanced technology in this endeavor aims to make a state-of-the-art airport with international connections a reality in Meghalaya.
Furthermore, the government is currently engaged in the expansion of Baljek Airport in Garo Hills, although the progress on this front has been notably slow.
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