The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has awarded a tender for the expansion of Shillong Airport, Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar said on Tuesday. He indicated that the decision follows technical and administrative procedures and that the state government has been kept informed of progress. The announcement was presented as a step towards improving air connectivity in Meghalaya and enhancing regional infrastructure to support passenger growth and economic activity.

Mr Dhar said that officers of the Transport Department have been instructed to liaise with the Airports Authority of India to obtain details about the contractor and the expansion plan. Officials were directed to review contractual documents and project schedules and to report back to the state administration. The department will monitor compliance with regulatory norms and ensure that clearance and land acquisition matters are coordinated with relevant agencies.

Dhar said the contractor was expected to start work shortly and that preparatory activities at the site would be overseen by AAI engineers. The state administration intends to facilitate necessary clearances and local coordination to minimise delays. Observers were told the expansion is likely to include upgrades to passenger handling facilities and operational infrastructure, which are designed to meet projected demand and improve service levels at the airport.

He added that the second phase of the Assam?Meghalaya interstate border talks would resume once a new government is installed in Assam, and that the Meghalaya government is seeking to resolve the matter at the earliest. The forthcoming round of talks is intended to address and settle the debate and confusion over six remaining disputed areas. Officials indicated that state and central interlocutors will seek a negotiated settlement to reduce local tensions and clarify administrative boundaries.