Federal Minister Planning, Development & Reform Ashan Iqbal today directed Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to speed up completion of civil, mechanical and electrical work of New Islamabad International Airport this year. Cargo operation should start first in order to pave the way for launch of new airport. Minister issued these directives while chairing a high-level meeting regarding New Islamabad International Airport in Ministry of Planning, Development & Reform. The meeting was attended by high officials of Civil Aviation Authority, National Highway Authority and Planning Commission of Pakistan. Ahsan Iqbal said that current government took up the challenge of new Islamabad Airportdespite all the discrepancies of the past. We are determined to complete it in time and bring best standards in facilities for the passengers.
He particularly emphasized provision of quality commercial activities in new airport because commercial facilities have become critical at modern airports. He suggested for provision of international standards shopping arcades, cafes, restaurants facilities in new airport to attract transit passengers. He also directed for providing spacious place at immigration and check-in counters at 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 New Islamabad International 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.
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