Tura: In a significant development for air connectivity in Meghalaya, the state government on Tuesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Airports Authority of India (AAI) to facilitate the operationalisation of Baljek Airport in West Garo Hills.
Speaking at the event, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma described the agreement as a crucial step toward enhancing regional connectivity, particularly for the Garo Hills region.
He paid tribute to former Lok Sabha Speaker P.A. Sangma, who had originally envisioned the airport, calling it a “valuable asset” not only for the local population but for the entire state.
“Baljek Airport will be a game changer for this region. Jengjal is set to emerge as a significant centre in Garo Hills with the airport’s activation,” the chief minister said.
Under the new agreement, the responsibility for managing and operating the airport now formally rests with the Airports Authority of India.
The government is also in talks with the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation to operationalise a 19-seater flight under the Centre’s Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS-UDAN) between Shillong and Baljek.
The chief minister noted that the signing of the MoU marks an important milestone in realising this plan.
Emphasising long-term planning, Sangma urged all stakeholders to approach the airport’s development with a 30- to 50-year vision in mind, rather than focusing solely on current air traffic demands.
“Our plans for Baljek Airport are not just for the immediate future, but for decades to come,” he said.
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He also called for public cooperation in the land acquisition process required for the expansion of the airport, including the extension of the runway to accommodate both commercial and cargo aircraft.
Directing the Deputy Commissioner to expedite the land acquisition process, he stressed the urgency of extending the runway to support future operations.
“The state government is executing its aviation development roadmap in a phased manner. Operationalising Baljek Airport is a key part of that broader vision,” he added.
