THE MINISTRY of Communication and Aviation is planning to upgrade four provincial airstrips under its priority list.
They are Lata (Temotu province), Kirakira (Makira Ulawa), Taro (Choiseul) and Gwounoru’u in Malaita province.
Permanent secretary, Francis Lomo said the ministry wants to tar-seal these airstrips because of the demands on their traffic routes by the travelling public and tourists.
Mr Lomo said the Gwounoru’u airstrip is under dispute but he hopes the new government will treat it as priority in addressing it.
He said Gwounoru’u’s close proximity is demanding for business people because of the growing Auki township and also, it is a gateway to Malaita Province.
Mr Lomo said there is pressing need to upgrade San Jorge in Isabel Province as well to complement the development of Nickel there.
Minister Commins Mewa said the provincials’ airstrips are important for the country’s economic developments.
Meanwhile, Lomo said the ministry also earmarked Yandina airstrip under its upgrading list, if the government plans to revive the Russells Islands Plantation Estate Limited (RIPEL).
By EDDIE OSIFELO
