By Delicia Janneire
The Public Works Ministry has committed to constructing an $800 million airstrip at Matthew’s Ridge, with local residents actively participating in its development.
Public Works Minister Juan Edghill highlighted the government’s focus on empowering hinterland communities by creating economic opportunities through local projects.
Minister Edghill explained that, rather than contracting external workers, the decision was made to involve the people of Matthew’s Ridge in the construction.
This approach aligns with President Irfaan Ali’s vision of community-driven development, ensuring that money circulates within the community and benefits the local economy.
Approximately 32 residents will be employed in the three- to four-month project, filling roles such as laborers, masons, carpenters, and foremen.
Minister Edghill emphasized the financial impact, noting that an average of $240,000 per day will be injected into the community, amounting to $15–20 million over the project’s duration.
The new airstrip, which will replace the deteriorating current one, will be 4,000 feet long with an 80-foot-wide concrete pavement.
It will accommodate larger aircraft and facilitate more passengers and cargo, helping to reduce airfare costs for locals.