Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma has announced that the state government will release Rs 50 crore to the Airports Authority of India this month to restart development work at Jengjal Airport. The decision marks a crucial breakthrough for the long-stalled project, which has remained inactive for more than a decade. The funding signals the government’s renewed focus on improving air connectivity in the Garo Hills region. The push for the Jengjal Airport revival now brings fresh hope for residents who have waited years for functional air services.
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The Chief Minister made the announcement while inaugurating a new police station building in West Garo Hills. He emphasised that the airport project could not progress earlier because of runway limitations and incomplete infrastructure. Although the airport, officially known as Baljek Airport, was inaugurated in 2008 by then President Pratibha Patil, it never hosted a single commercial flight. Because of these long delays, many residents doubted if the facility would ever become operational. Therefore, the new investment has generated optimism across the region.
According to Sangma, the state government has held multiple rounds of discussions with the Airports Authority of India to identify key requirements. The Rs 50 crore funding will cover runway expansion, terminal upgrades, and safety enhancements. The government aims to complete the most urgent components first so that AAI can begin technical assessments as soon as possible. Furthermore, officials believe that the Jengjal Airport revival will boost economic activity in the Garo Hills.
A Major Push After Years of Neglect
The announcement marks a dramatic shift from years of inactivity. For more than a decade, the airport remained unused despite repeated demands from the public. Many blamed poor planning during the initial development phase. Because the runway was too short to support commercial aircraft, airlines could not operate flights even after the airport’s inauguration.
Chief Minister Conrad Sangma stated that the government now intends to correct earlier gaps through a phased approach. He added that the revival of Jengjal Airport is essential for regional development. With improved air connectivity, healthcare access, tourism growth, and business opportunities will expand in the area. Sangma also noted that improved infrastructure will help reduce travel time for residents who currently depend on faraway airports.
The Chief Minister emphasised that the Jengjal Airport revival will support the government’s long-term plan to improve connectivity in all districts. Moreover, he said that Meghalaya must strengthen its transport systems if it wants to attract investment and tourism.
Strategic Importance for Garo Hills
Jengjal Airport lies in a strategic location for the entire Garo Hills region. As road travel from the western districts often takes long hours, local residents have long demanded air connectivity. The revival project will therefore play a crucial role in making travel more efficient. It will also help emergency medical services reach patients faster.
Furthermore, officials believe that the airport will boost the region’s tourism potential. The Garo Hills offer waterfalls, wildlife sanctuaries, cultural sites, and scenic landscapes. With better connectivity, more visitors are likely to travel to the region. The Jengjal Airport revival may also create new employment opportunities through tourism-related services.
Local leaders have expressed support for the government’s decision. They believe that a functioning airport will bridge the gap between the eastern and western parts of Meghalaya. Businesses operating in Tura and nearby towns will also benefit from quicker transport of goods and improved logistics.
Government Planning and Next Steps
With the funding confirmed, the next step involves completing AAI’s technical and structural assessments. Engineers will review runway conditions, soil stability, and expansion feasibility. After these assessments, construction work will begin in phases. The state government wants AAI to complete the initial groundwork as soon as possible.
Additionally, the government plans to ensure regular monitoring to avoid further delays. The Chief Minister said that the Jengjal Airport revival requires teamwork between state departments, AAI officials, and local authorities. Therefore, the administration intends to hold frequent review meetings.
The state government also wants to coordinate with airlines once infrastructure upgrades reach the final stages. Early consultations will help airlines prepare route plans and operational studies. These steps aim to reduce waiting time once the airport becomes ready for operations.
Conclusion
Meghalaya’s decision to release Rs 50 crore for the Jengjal Airport revival marks a historic move toward strengthening air connectivity in the Garo Hills. After years of delay and neglect, the project now appears ready to progress. The government’s renewed commitment reflects a broader vision for development, accessibility, and economic growth. As work restarts, the revival of Jengjal Airport will bring new opportunities for residents and help transform the region’s travel landscape.
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