ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) has given the green light for the
construction of two new international airports in the country, well-placed sources
confirmed on Tuesday.
Though official confirmation and details are awaited, sources divulge that the airports
would be constructed in Sukkur and Muzaffarabad, with work on the multi-billion rupee
projects set to be completed within five years.
In this regard, the PAA has formed a dedicated committee of officers to oversee land
acquisition for the two airports. Reportedly, preliminary development has already begun
under the supervision of the PAA’s Works and Development Department.
In addition to internal resources, the authority is expected to engage consultants and
technical experts for the construction of the airports. The projects are expected to
significantly improve regional connectivity and support economic growth in the country.
The airport projects represent a major infrastructure push by the federal government led
by Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz, with Sukkur International Airport expected to serve
the growing transport needs of upper Sindh, and Muzaffarabad International Airport
poised to improve access to AJK.
The news regarding the construction of airports comes days after Prime Minister
Shehbaz Sharif confirmed that feasibility study has been ordered for the construction of
international airport in Mirpur city in Azad Kashmir.
A letter from British Members of Parliament was also addressed to the Pakistani
premier following which the feasibility study was ordered.
The federal government has also recently announced a comprehensive package for the
overseas Pakistanis including relaxation in age limit for government jobs as well as
setting aside a quota in educational institutes for the children of expatriates.
