Minister Nimal Siripala writes to Japanese Govt. over delay of BIA terminal construction

• Ports, Shipping and Aviation Minister alleges project has been delayed by 8-years
• Says despite the submission of several proposals to expedite process, no sign of assistance
• Expresses displeasure over security standards adopted 
• Calls to streamline selection of subcontractors as employed are also unsuitable for task

Ports, Shipping and Aviation Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva has written to the Government of Japan over the delay in the construction process of the new terminal at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA).

He said a complaint has been lodged with regards to the delay from the contracted Japanese company engaged in construction of the new terminal at 

the BIA.

“Agreements were entered with the Japanese company for the construction of the terminal eight years ago,” the Minister said during an observational tour of the construction of the new terminal, at BIA in Katunayake.

Acknowledging that there were many reasons which led to the eight-year delay in construction work, Minister de Silva said he tabled several proposals to expedite the construction process, but there were no signs of receiving assistance.

He said the construction of the airport terminal must be carried out as per the international standards by ensuring all services including security. “The security systems must be in accordance with standards of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). But I received a complaint that ICAO standards are not being followed,” he pointed out. 

Claiming that he took a strict stand on the matter, Minister de Silva said he informed all relevant parties that the quality of the terminal cannot be scaled down. 

The Minister pointed out that all these matters have contributed to the delay in the project, adding he requested the process of selecting subcontractors to be streamlined soon to fast-track the construction work of the terminal at BIA.