Sindh Coal Authority (SCA) and Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Saturday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for construction of a modern airstrip near Islamkot in Thar coal field at a cost of Rs 972 million to facilitate the investors. The MoU was signed by DG SCA, Ahmad Bux Narejo and Director Projects CAA, Vikram S Sodha in the presence of Acting Additional Chief Secretary Planning and Development Aurangzeb Haq, Managing Director UCGP Thar, representatives of Engro and Cougar and other high officials.
Talking to media, Ejaz Ali Khan said the airport would have 7000 feet-long airstrip to facilitate landing of large aircraft including C-130 for the transportation of big machinery for Thar coal-field. He said Sindh government would provide funds as sponsor while CAA will execute the schedule for completion of the project within two years.
He further said the CAA has completed pre-qualification process of the project and tenders will be issued next week. He hoped that the airstrip would save time of the investors. Replying to a question regarding infrastructure facilities at Thar coal-field, Khan said the existing road will be broadened to facilitate transportation from Karachi to the coal-field. Similarly, feasibility for provision of water was under way to supply 100 cusecs of water per day from Nara Canal to the field.