– Ghir
THE massive modernisation project at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) is moving apace on schedule, according to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr. Ramesh Ghir.
In his 2013 review, he said work has commenced on the final design of the terminal building and is expected to be completed in March.

Ghir said, between now and then, four stakeholder meetings are scheduled to discuss the designs.
He reported that, to date, over 4,500 truck loads of sand have been dumped in the excavated area as works progress on the extension of the runway.
Ghir said the excavation and backfilling commenced on a test section of 160 metres by 160 metres, which was aimed at ensuring that the correct design techniques are adopted for the entire runway extension.
The project features three components, construction of a new terminal building, measuring 16,000 square metres, which will have eight passenger boarding bridges and two elevators, as well as close circuit television (CCTV) and departures control systems; the extension of the main runway by 3,500 feet to a final length of 10,500 feet, which will increase CJIA’s capacity to facilitate the landing of Boeing 747-400 aircraft; and the construction of eight international parking positions.
RELOCATING SQUATTERS
On the issue of relocating squatters, Ghir said a draft relocation plan has been prepared and a meeting was held with those who will be affected to address the way forward.
He explained that there are, presently, no major challenges being dealt with and maintained that works are progressing smoothly.
President Donald Ramotar, recently, acknowledged that the modernisation works have the potential to attract more airlines, once Guyana’s capacity to accommodate them is improved.
Alluding to the fact that the Panama-based Copa Airlines has already announced the commencement of its service to Guyana in July this year, the Head of State noted that Guyana is already attracting increased foreign interest.
“These new airlines are coming in on what we have. It is not a question that they are waiting for the completion of the project…this gives you an indication that, with a better runway, Guyana can realise our potential,” he said.
CJIA Public Relations Officer, Aneka Edwards said the contractor, China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) is continuing its works.
The joint Parliamentary Opposition, last December, opposed a $65.4M allocation in a Statement of Excess financial paper tabled by Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh.
However, given that the minister acted in accordance with the Constitution and the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act, the Opposition’s non-approval had no effect.
The project faced a similar challenge when the 2013 Budget was cut, but in mid-September this year, CJIA Board Chairman, Mr. Ramesh Dookhoo said the modernising programme is being propelled by a US$20M mobilisation advance made under the 2012 Budget.
Government has signed a design and build contract to the tune of US$138M with the Chinese contractor, CHEC which has 32 months to complete the job.
It is being partially funded by a US$130M loan from China, with the rest coming from the local public treasury and is scheduled for completion in August 2015.