THE K39.4 million asphalt runway upgrading project at the Kagamuga Airport was launched on Tuesday by Civil Aviation Minister Wake Goi.
He thanked the leaders of Western Highlands, Chimbu and Enga for their patience, acknowledging the high demand for an airport capable of accommodating larger aircraft.
The project is funded by the National Airports Corporation (NAC).
Goi also announced the relocation of markets and the enforcement of a ban on betel nut and cigarette sale starting next week.
Of the K39.4 million investment, about K4 million was paid to the China Harbour Engineering Company to mobilise supplies to replace the ageing bituminous seal with a durable asphalt concrete overlay.
Meanwhile, NAC acting managing director Dominic Kaumu explained that the upgrade was to support Air Niugini’s transition to the Boeing 737 and the new Airbus A220 fleet.
Kaumu said the work must be completed by December to facilitate the Christmas travel surge for the Highlands people.
Western Highlands Governor Wai Rapa said that the previous delays had caused “sleepless nights” for him and the business community.
“Kagamuga is a vital artery for the region, seeing three to four million persons transiting through the province, which puts immense stress on local public facilities,” Rapa said.
“To the contractors, please deliver high-quality work.”
He added that previous runway repairs had failed to last, and urged the surrounding community and security forces to ensure the workmen are not disturbed during construction.
