PM asks airports to prevent intruders
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday asked the authorities concerned to check the entry of unwarranted people into the country and to be careful so that no-one falls victim to harassment at airports.
She also directed them to ensure safety of air passengers as well as their smooth and hassle-free journey.
The prime minister said this at the inaugural ceremony of the upgradation project of Hazrat Shahajalal International Airport in the capital.
Hasina said the quality of services of the civil aviation should rise to international standard as Bangladesh could bridge the East and the West.
“The country's geographical position can be used as the bridge between the East and West. We need to utilise that opportunity. This will be helpful in uplifting the socioeconomic status of the country.â€
Hasina said the airport would be upgraded further on completion of the taxiway strengthening project with fund from the Danish government.
Terming airports as the mirror of a country, the premier said foreigners could see and get ideas about the country through the airports.
Hasina said the importance of air transport was increasing globally as the fastest and safest mode of travel.
Various economic activities, including export-import and tourism, can be boosted if the airports are equipped with adequate and modern facilities, she said.
According to official data, now the airport's taxiway and its lighting will be rehabilitated at a cost of 311 million Danish krone (Tk 445 crore) to be provided by Danish International Development Agency (Danida) as grant. The government will bear around Tk 85 crore in duty and taxes on imports of equipment.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (Caab) under the Civil Aviation and Tourism Ministry are implementing the project, "Upgradation of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport".
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel.
Comments