By Stanley Ove Jnr – Port Moresby
The people of Manus will now enjoy the luxury of a modern airport terminal.
Officially opened yesterday (25th April) by Prime Minister James Marape, the new Momote airport terminal stands out with its unique stingray inspired design – an ideal representation of the Manus people.
As part of the Civil Aviation Development Investment Program (CADIP) – a joint partnership with the ADB and the National Government, a total of K101.9million was put into the project. The project works included improving the runway pavement, runway extension, power and water supply, airport market facility and the new terminal.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Civil Aviation Minister Walter Schnaubelt acknowledged the partnership with ADB and thanked the landowners for allowing the project to run without any disruption. He said the airport rehabilitation project is a massive government investment and the people of Manus must embrace it fully.
“The sustainability and operation of this terminal will be determined by how you look after the terminal. It will not operate into the future if you do not look after it,” Minister Schnaubelt said.
The Minister also announced that all outstanding projects under the CADIP 1 program will conclude by the 2nd quarter of 2022, with the CADIP 2 to commence soon after in December.
“Under the CADIP 2 program, the government will look at revitalising a number of regional airstrips. This will open up our country and encourage economic growth,” the Minister added.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister James Marape spoke about the number of opportunities this project will give to the people of Manus. He challenged them to go into spin-off businesses and generate revenue that can counter the K101.9million investment.
“The Government wants every province to be economically independent. I want to encourage my people of Manus, go into business and generate revenue. This can be achieved because now you have a new airport terminal that will bring more businesses into the province,” said PM Marape.
He said delivering enabling infrastructure is a priority of this Government and it will continue through with the CADIP 2 program. Other projects include the Connect PNG program which aims to connect missing road links in the country.
“We are committed to deliver these projects. We have to open up the country. We must connect our provinces,” Marape added.
The new state of the art facility has a VIP lounge, a spacious departure lounge with 139 seats, modern check-in counters with a conveyor belt for baggage, screening machines, toilet facilities and a kiosk.
Out of the K101.9million, K32million was put to building the stingray designed terminal.
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