Residents of Paruima, Upper Mazaruni, Region Seven, have raised concerns about deterioration of the recently commissioned airstrip.
Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, yesterday confirmed he has received reports of water lodging on the runway due to excess rainfall.
Several posts circulating on the social media site, Facebook, show that potholes are visible on the recently commissioned airstrip. Edghill told Stabroek News yesterday that he received reports of water lodging on the airstrip because of excess rainfall, but stressed that the airstrip is fully operational and has been accommodating many flights over the last two weeks.
Regional Chairman, Kenneth Williams, also told Stabroek News that airstrip has been operational and as of early yesterday morning he spoke with his team who confirmed that it was functional.
Edghill also pointed out that the construction of the Paruima Airstrip is within the defects liability period and as such, the contractor would bear the cost of any rehabilitation necessary.
Three weeks ago, Edghill declared open the airstrip which is valued at some $397 million. The airstrip underwent a significant upgrade, being transformed from a simple grassy patch to a solid concrete structure. The contract was awarded to International Import & Supplies in 2023.
