MR Intl. Airport promises ‘New journey begins here!’

Text and pix By Nisthar Cassim

Largely on account of political connotations, any major development project in Hambantota, even if there is merit in a national commercial sense or meeting the region’s aspirations, is perceived to be controversial. With exactly a week to go for its ceremonial opening, the Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (MRIA) faces a similar predicament.

Aviation industry analysts are more optimistic that MRIA will have better success than the $ 1.5 billion Hambantota Port, opened in 2011. Perhaps the struggle by the Magampura Port in Hambantota since its controversial opening could signify gloomy skies for the MRIA.