Deputy Transport Minister Dr Charles Tizeba revealed on Thursday that the government plans to conduct feasibility studies on the construction of eleven airports countrywide through funding from the World Bank.
Deputy Minister for Transport, Dr Charles Tizeba
“The feasibility studies and design work will put into account all infrastructural needed for an airport,” Dr Tizeba said while responding to a basic question asked by Special Seats MP Esther Midimu (CCM).
The MP had wanted to know as to when the government would put up an airport for the newly-formed Simiyu Region. The feasibility study and design work will enable preparations for tender documents for contractors when the government acquires funds for the project, according to the deputy minister.
“Simiyu Region is among regions that will be considered in the construction of the eleven airports countrywide,” he explained. He noted further that six consulting engineering firms were on November 5, this year, given request for proposal documents after they were being shortlisted in accordance to procurement guidelines of the World Bank.
Dr Tizeba said the government had engaged authorities in the region on possible sites for construction of the airport after which it was shown two plots for consideration at Dutwa division.
“After inspecting the two sites that have been proposed the consultant who will win the tender will guide us on the suitable location among the two,” the deputy minister reported.
A number of regions countrywide lack proper infrastructure for airstrips and airports and thus holding back development of the air transport.
Source Tanzania Daily News
