Saidpur airport to be upgraded into int'l gateway: Minister

Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam has said the government is actively working to implement plans to upgrade Saidpur Airport into an international airport as part of a broader initiative to modernise the country’s key aviation hubs.

Speaking to reporters at the airport on Wednesday morning, the minister said airports with strategic importance and growing passenger demand would be upgraded gradually to international standards.

She said the government is moving forward with the plan to transform Saidpur Airport into an international gateway in line with commitments made by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.

“The government is implementing development activities by giving priority to public interest,” she said, adding that the administration has already taken initiatives to fulfil the prime minister’s pledges in phases.

Afroza Khanam said only a short period has passed since the current government assumed office, and therefore development projects would be implemented step by step.

She urged journalists and the public to remain patient, saying the government is sincerely working to modernise airports across the country and improve passenger services.

“Airports that can play an important role in the economy, connectivity and public service will be upgraded to international standards,” the minister added.

After the briefing, the minister left for Thakurgaon by road as part of her district visit.

Local BNP leaders, including Saidpur political district BNP President Abdur Gafur Sarkar and General Secretary Shahin Akhtar, were present during the visit.