Government is preparing to finalize the construction of the proposed second international airport, Nijgadh International Airport in Public Private Partnership (PPP) model.
The air security department from Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation has suggested that the construction project of airport is only possible in PPP model.
Previously, Ministry of Finance had advised to adopt Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model rather than Engineering, Procurement, Construction and Finance (EPCF) model for Nijgadh International Airport. Though the construction project was proposed since long time, the issue of choosing the model had not been decided yet.
Minister Adhikari had committed to finalize the construction model of the Nijgadh International Airport within 100 days where various authorities are now recommending PPP model. This indicates that the model will be finalized soon.
Budda Sagar Lamichhane, Joint Secretary at Ministry stated that the PPP model has been used for construction of airport around the world. Around half dozen airport of India has been constructed in PPP model. So, we suggest PPP model is more appropriate for Nijgadh International Airport.
In 2064, ministry council decided Landmark Worldwide Company (LMW), Korean Company to make a detail project study report. In 2065, LMW submitted the report with the suggestion of constructing the airport in BOOT model with the objective of completing the first phase of work in 2070. Only a few weeks ago, Nepal government has decided to buy Detailed Project Report (DPR) from LMW. But there was a dispute after KP Sharma Oli, former Prime Minister made decision to make domestic investment.
Earlier, LMW prepared Boot model with the purpose to transfer to Nepal after 30 years. This time Ministry has planned to conduct global tender to prefer the company. If EPC model is picked then the government does not have to raise investment.
Pokhara International Airport is being constructed in EPC model.
There will be 6 boarding gates along with 34 check in counters, 6 security checks 34 inspections and 8 custom checks counters in airport terminal which can welcome 6 million passengers annually.
According to a Korean company’s feasibility study, the Nijgadh airport will be able to handle 15 million passengers annually and accommodate the Airbus A380 super jumbo after the first phase of construction.
