Transforming Meghalaya's Tourism Landscape: Shillong Airport Runway Expansion Approved
The runway expansion work at Shillong airport has received approval from the Centre, according to Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma. This project is expected to enhance tourism and connectivity in the state. The chief minister made this announcement during the Empowerment of Tourism Champions of Meghalaya event at Orchid Lake in Umiam. The expansion is anticipated to be completed in approximately 15 months, allowing larger aircraft to operate, which will significantly benefit tourism in Meghalaya.
Sangma emphasized the importance of improved connectivity for positioning Meghalaya as a prominent tourist destination and attracting visitors from various parts of the country and abroad. He highlighted the collaborative effort required from all stakeholders in the tourism sector to ensure its success. The event, organized by the tourism department, brought together tourism stakeholders, entrepreneurs, artisans, students, community leaders, and beneficiaries from different regions of the state.
The chief minister commended the tourism department, entrepreneurs, and tourism stakeholders for their contributions to elevating Meghalaya's status on the national and global tourism fronts. Sangma stressed the need for a comprehensive tourism ecosystem that appeals to travelers and positions Meghalaya as a top choice for tourists. He outlined the state's tourism roadmap, which includes various ongoing projects such as the Shillong Ropeway, Mawkdok Skywalk, Rain Museum in Mawsynram, and tourism centers in Sohra, Mandalgre, and Siju.
Tourism Minister Timothy D Shira highlighted the significant role of tourism in Meghalaya's economy, with nearly 18 lakh tourist arrivals in 2025. He underscored the government's commitment to making tourism a key driver of economic growth and livelihood opportunities for the people. Shira mentioned the implementation of over 150 tourism projects with substantial investments and private sector involvement. The state is focusing on developing Umiam as a global tourism destination and has established a Destination Management Organization for effective destination planning and sustainable tourism management.
During the event, the chief minister announced new beneficiaries under the Chief Minister's Meghalaya Homestay Mission and recognized successful beneficiaries under the Chief Minister's Homestay Scheme-PMEGP. The mission aims to create 3,000 new homestays by 2028 and generate over 15,000 employment opportunities across Meghalaya. Financial assistance has been provided to homestay applicants, and support has been extended to villages, cooperatives, and tourism societies for developing tourism infrastructure. The program also included presentations on Meghalaya's participation in the Surajkund International Crafts Mela and exposure visits for tourism stakeholders. Additionally, a bravery award was presented to Teiborlang Pakma for rescuing a drowning person at Ward's Lake.
In conclusion, the runway expansion at Shillong airport is set to transform tourism and connectivity in Meghalaya, with the state's tourism sector poised for growth and development through collaborative efforts and strategic initiatives.