Some 2100 feet of the Eteringbang airstrip will be soon upgraded, according to Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill who visited the area on Tuesday.
Accompanying Minister Edghill on his visit was the Assistant Aviation Inspector, Alphonso Mangah, Chief Transport Planning Officer, Patrick Thompson, Senior Engineer, Dionne Amsterdam and Chief Inspector, Aerodromes and Ground Aids, GCAA, Adrian Bassier.
Upon landing at the airstrip, the Minister raised concerns since bushes have been taking over to the runway. In fact, vegetation has now grown over the cones strategically placed to border the airstrip.
Against this backdrop, he suggested to the maintenance team to explore marking the area and possibly spray the grass for a permanent solution, which will also allow for drainage on the runway.
During a meeting with residents of Eteringbang, it was suggested that laterite not be used since it is a temporary measure. Residents explained that they would like the structure to be paved with concrete. They were keen to note that they believe the people are skilful enough to get the job done.
Minister Edghill said he is well aware of the need for the airstrip to be properly rehabilitated and will discuss the possibility of giving the people what they want.
He nevertheless charged the “skilled men” in the area to complete a full cleaning of the airstrip to prove their competence. This project will see the airstrip being cleared of all vegetation to allow for drainage.
The team said the work will be completed by Monday, considering the weather conditions.
Minister Edghill personally thanked the group of residents for clearing the airstrip for him to land, since the water had reportedly accumulated on the runway. The Minister nonetheless pointed to the importance of the airstrip being safe and clean at all times. (Extracted and Modified from the Ministry of Public Works)
