It includes specific provisions allowing G+3 (four-storey) constructions in areas with motorable roads, and G+2 (three-storey) structures in non-motorable zones, with a plot size of up to 1,000 square feet for G+2 buildings
By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, July 10: Senior BJP MLA and member of the Shillong Cantonment Board, Sanbor Shullai, on Thursday informed that the Draft Cantonment Building Byelaws 2025 were approved by the Shillong Cantonment Board on July 1, following sustained discussions with top defence officials and representatives from the Ministry of Defence.
The move, championed by the Shillong Cantonment Area Development Committee, fulfils a 53-year-old aspiration of the residents. The draft, vetted by the Meghalaya Urban Development Authority (MUDA), includes specific provisions allowing G+3 (four-storey) constructions in areas with motorable roads, and G+2 (three-storey) structures in non-motorable zones, with a plot size of up to 1,000 square feet for G+2 buildings.
In accordance with protocol, MUDA officials were deputed to the review meeting to ensure the draft adheres to existing urban planning norms. The approved draft has now been forwarded for recommendation by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Eastern Command. Final financial clearance is awaited from the Ministry of Defence in Delhi.
The approved Shillong Cantonment Building Byelaws have also been forwarded to the Directorate General, Defence Estates (DGDE) for review and recommendation by the GOC-in-C, Eastern Command Headquarters. Final approval will rest with the Ministry of Defence.
Shullai added that a meeting with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is being planned to expedite the approval process. If everything proceeds as scheduled, he expressed hope that residents will be able to begin applying under the new regulations within two to three months—marking a historic milestone for the Shillong Cantonment area.
The MLA also recalled previous eviction drives targeting illegal constructions. Although many owners and lessees challenged the actions in court, rulings ultimately favoured the Defence authorities, resulting in the demolition of several unauthorised structures.
Once implemented, the byelaws will align with MUDA’s regulatory framework, though construction will be capped at four storeys—unlike MUDA’s G+5 limit.