Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, yesterday signed an agreement which will see $137.3M being used to rehabilitate the Lethem Aerodrome, Region 9 (Upper Takatu/Upper Essequibo). The job was awarded to H. Nauth and Sons Limited.
In his remarks at the Takatu Hotel, the minister noted that there continues to be increasing calls for air transportation between Georgetown, Lethem, Northern Brazil and the Caribbean. This demand, he said, “is projected to grow exponentially – particularly with expansions in the gold mining sector and emerging oil and gas industry.”
“The Government of Guyana ultimately intends to upgrade the Lethem aerodrome to regional standards which will also act as a hub in servicing this demand,” Minister Patterson stated.
He also pointed out that the rehabilitation of the Lethem aerodrome will significantly reduce the cost of doing business and improve the quality of inter-regional connectivity.
Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo said the government believes that “the project is worthy and is critical to the vast region.”
He also noted that the transformation of the aerodrome will contribute to improving the standard of living in region.
The Prime Minister further emphasised that the upgrades are testimony of the government’s commitment to ensuring development in all ten administrative regions of Guyana.
Also present for the ceremonial signing was Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman along with engineers from the Ministry of Public Infrastructure.
The contracted works will see 4000ft of runway upgraded which forms Phase 1 of the upgrades to meet International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.