THE intention behind construction of the airstrip on Wakenaam Island, Essequibo River is to facilitate medi-vac operations, enhance tourism, and provide a security air depot, Public Works & Hydraulics Minister Robeson Benn has said. Sections of the media have levied criticisms and accusations regarding construction of the G$54M Wakenaam airstrip, but Minister Benn said the airstrip was built for transporting tourists and goods and services, and for undertaking medical evacuations and security responses, among other uses.
In an invited comment, via telephone, to the Guyana Chronicle yesterday morning, the minister said a number of airstrips exist in Guyana in a state of readiness in the event of an emergency in terms of landing and evacuation.

He noted that, in the near future, tourism will make the Wakenaam airstrip popular, because a tour operator will soon commence operations there, and he disclosed that an initiative undertaken by the tourism sector would utilise the facility to maximize the tourism potential of the Essequibo Island, creating a tourist destination on the island.
Asked about the Transport & Harbours Department (T&HD) and the maintenance of vessels, he explained that rehabilitation of the M.V. Sandaka has been completed at a cost of $56M, and the vessel is presently at Parika undergoing finishing touches before going into service.

The vessel would join the fleet servicing the Essequibo. It is expected to do the Parika-to-Leguan run.