GOVERNMENT has announced that, in keeping with plans to transform the country’s infrastructure, all aerodromes will be upgraded.Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Annette Ferguson, in a recent interview with the Government Information Agency (GINA), said Government recognises that improved infrastructural networks can serve to catalyse development, hence Cabinet has approved the upgrade of Guyana’s aerodromes.

Ferguson said a committee has already been identified and given the mandate to begin developmental works. A draft document that outlines such development is expected to be submitted by early March.

“That document would seek to address how best we can have our aerodromes improved. We have in excess of 160 airstrips in the various 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. That is 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, had indicated that one of his plans entails the Lethem Airport being upgraded to regional status, with similar features in length and runway as the Ogle International Airport. However, for this to come into being, cheaper electricity is needed in the region, the Minister noted.

The year 2015 saw $417M being allocated towards air and river transport, in order to provide better linkages between hinterland regions and urban and rural centres. That figure is expected to be increased in this year’s budget.