Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Reform Ashan Iqbal on Tuesday directed the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to speed up the completion of civil, mechanical and electrical work for the New Islamabad International Airport this year.
He directed that Cargo operation should start first in order to pave the way for launching of the new airport. He issued these directives while chairing a high-level meeting regarding airport in Ministry of Planning, Development and Reform.
The meeting was attended by high officials of CAA, National Highway Authority and Planning Commission of Pakistan. The minister said that current government took up the challenge of new Islamabad airport despite all the discrepancies of the past. He said the government was determined to complete it in time and bring best standards in facilities for the passengers.
He particularly emphasized provision of quality commercial activities in the new airport as commercial facilities are critical for modern airports. He suggested installation of international standard shopping arcades, cafes, restaurants facilities to attract transit passengers.
He also directed for spacious immigration and check-in counters at the new airport to cater smooth passengers flow. About link roads, minister sought clear time-lines from the relevant department about their completion. In view of distance of new airport from centres of twin cities, Ahsan Iqbal said that city shuttle service should start between new airport and twin cities to carry the passengers.
Regarding delay in completion of new airport, minister held the view that responsibility should be fixed in the past for slow execution of work. The lessons learnt from the new airport should be applied in future projects to avoid delays.
He said project management and leadership should not be compromised in mega development projects by inducting top professionals of their respective areas.