As the current administration continues to place emphasis on transforming the country’s infrastructure, emphasis is also being placed on the development of aerodromes.
Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure Annette Ferguson in recent interview with the Government Information Agency (GINA) said that the administration recognises that improved infrastructural networks can serve as a catalyst for development; as such Cabinet approved theupgrade of Guyana’s aerodromes.
Ferguson added that a committee has already been identified and given their mandate to begin development works; to wit by early March they will submit a draft document that outlines such development.
“That document would seek to address how best we can have our aerodromes improved…we have in excess of 160 airstrips in the varying regions…some of these airstrips are in a deplorable state…this improvement will not be done haphazardly,” Ferguson explained.
A consultative approach is expected to be taken when developing airstrips in the hinterland to ensure that the various stakeholders, operators and people who live in the community have their say in what is developed.
Minister of Public Infrastructure David Patterson in a previous interview indicated that one of his plans entails the Lethem Airport being upgraded to regional status with similar features to length and runway as the Ogle International Airport, however for this to come in place, there is need for the supply of cheaper electricity in the region.
The year 2015 saw an allocation of $417M towards air and river transport for the provision of better linkages between hinterland regions with urban and rural centres. This year is expected to witness an increase in this figure.
