ACCESS to the Amerindian community of Paramakatoi will become easier as the government injects $799 million for the reconstruction of its airstrip. The upgraded airstrip will span 2,500 feet in length and 50 feet in width. The structure will be fortified using six inches of rigid, paved concrete, BRC mesh and steel joints to ensure durability and efficient load transfer between slabs.
In addition to the main runway, a 100 by 100 ft tarmac serves as a designated parking area for aircraft. While spearheading the engagement alongside engineers on Monday last, Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, said the contract was signed in November last year, and the contractor has since engaged the community.

However, he asserted that works would not commence until several criteria are met. The minister stated that the road linking Paramakatoi to Kato had to first be improved to ensure swift medical evacuations via Kato airstrip in the event of an emergency.

Second, all construction materials, including cement and steel, had to be on site before any work began. “You can’t start the airstrip, open up the airstrip, and then say you can’t bring in cement or steel because the bridge bruk down,” the minister explained.

The minister continued, “We have to get the materials in, so once we start, we keep moving.” The casting of the airstrip is expected to take approximately six weeks; however, the project is expected to be completed within two months.

Preliminary works, including the construction of a bond to store materials, have already been completed with full-scale work on the airstrip scheduled to start on May 1. Residents from the village will be employed to assist in the timely execution of the project.

Moreover, Minister Edghill cautioned residents and businesses from using the temporary closure of the airstrip as a reason to increase the cost of transportation and goods. Once completed, the airstrip is expected to improve air connectivity and safety in the North Pakaraimas, offering enhanced access for both emergency and regular flights. (DPI)