Meghalaya High Court: In a public interest litigation concerning development and expansion of the Shillong Airport, involving the extension of the runway, development of the infrastructure and other facilities in and around the airport, the Division Bench of W. Diengdoh and I.P. Mukerji, JJ. viewing that concrete steps were required for extension of the runway, development of infrastructure and other facilities, directed the State Government to take all requisite steps so that the area of land is acquired and handed over to the Airports Authority of India, preferably within three months from date.
The Court also directed the Director General of Civil Aviation, in collaboration with the Airports Authority of India to approve and implement a complete plan for the expansion of the Shillong Airport within three months of acquisition and handing over of land to the Airports Authority of India by the State Government.
The Court stated that the development of Shillong Airport is key to advancement of State in all respects, it could facilitate the operation of larger, heavier and more sophisticated jet aircrafts, carrying both passengers and cargo. The Court also pointed out that it would further the economic and tourism development of the State.
The Court noted that measures had been taken for acquisition of land required for this development work and that the Director General of Civil Aviation is considering the proposal and plan for expansion of the airport.
The matter has been further listed for 14-04-2025 to consider the action taken by the respondents.
[Registrar General, High Court v. State of Meghalaya, 2024 SCC OnLine Megh 1113, decided on: 16-12-2024]
Advocates who appeared in this case:
For the petitioner: P. Yobin, Amicus Curiae; A. Dkhar, Adv.
For the respondent: A. Kumar, AG; A.H. Kharwanlang, Addl. Sr. GA; Dr. N. Mozika, DSGI; K. Gurung, Adv.
