Nausori Airport upgrade project yet to start

The landowners of the seven clans of Naselai and Natogadravu in Tailevu whose land is where the existing Nausori Airport is located are still waiting for the project to start.

Representative of the Tikina Nuku, Semi Matalau, at the talanoa session at Nausori yesterday said that the landowners have raised concerns as to why there is a delay in the expansion of the Nausori Airport.

He said this development project will open up more employment and business opportunities for the people.

He said this will also attract tourists coming to Nausori.

General Manager of the iTaukei Land Trust Board Alipate Qetaki replied that TLTB and Airports Fiji Limited are still discussing the valuation issue of the project.

Qetaki said that AFL has also not responded to the offer letter sent by TLTB last year.

He said the landowners grievances such as lease, employment and compensation are TLTB’s main priorities.

He said these issues will be discussed more with AFL in the next few weeks.

Airports Fiji Limited earlier said that the company has acquired 33 acres of crown lease land for the expansion of the Nausori Airport.

Chairman Faiz Khan said another similar size is being sought from TLTB as negotiations continue to come to an agreement before the commencement of the project.

The acquisition of the 91 acres of land for the redevelopment of Nausori Airport will cost $60 million.


Story by: Watisoni Butabua