admin
Victoria Falls Reporter
THE Government has expressed satisfaction with the progress made so far at the $150 million Victoria Falls International Airport expansion project. In a recent interview in Victoria Falls, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development Mr Munesushe Munodawafa said the foundation for the new terminal building had been laid while the 4km runway was being worked on.
The expansion project, which commenced in February, according to Mr Munodawafa, had seen commendable progress being made with the entire project expected to be completed next year.
“We are happy with the level of progress at the airport. In fact there is massive activity which has seen the terminal building foundation being laid. There is also work on the runway and we are right on schedule,” he said.
Mr Munodawafa said plans were at an advanced stage for the setting up of a concrete plant at the construction site because there will be massive requirement of concrete.
“There was a time when the project was hindered by lack of water but we have since made it a point that water tanks at the airport are filled during the night when water use in Victoria Falls town is at its minimal,” he said.
Mr Munodawafa said Chinese contractor Jiangsu was working hand in hand with a team of local engineers for transfer of technology.
“We are happy with the constructor because they are working everyday of the week so as to meet the deadline set for next year.”
The expansion programme includes construction of a 4km runway, a new international terminal building, an upgraded domestic terminal building, a new fire station, a new control tower and state-of-the-art aviation equipment.
Upon completion, Victoria Falls International Airport would have capacity to handle wide-bodied aircraft and is expected to handle up to 1,5 million tourists a year.
Online Reporter
Londile Moyo