GDF engineers to extend Kaieteur National Park Airstrip

GDF personnel on site (GDF photo)
GDF personnel on site (GDF photo)

Ranks of the 4 Engineers Battalion of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) are working assiduously to begin extending the airstrip at the Kaieteur National Park by 1000 feet.

A release from the GDF said that the soldiers are already on the ground and have begun preparatory work which has seen them clearing the area of expansion of shrubs as well as an additional 1000 feet to allow for smooth landing of aircraft. They have also built bonds to house material and equipment.

Government of Guyana, Project Engineer, Brigadier (Ret’d) Gary Beaton, and Staff Officer One Plans and Supervision, Lieutenant Colonel Kennard Liverpool visited the site recently to examine the work completed, stage of mobilization and layout.

Site Supervisor, Sergeant Dolyn Woodroffe said that this is his first experience working on a project of this scope and expressed his gratitude for the opportunity.

Kaieteur National Park Site Coordinator,  Carl Simon commended the initiative and said that with the extension, the park will see a greater influx of daily flights, the release said. He added that larger craft will also be able to land, thereby generating more revenue for the park.

The neighbouring community of Chenapou, which is located some 29 miles up the Potaro River, is also poised to benefit from this project.

The release said that the 4 Engineers Battalion continues to play a heightened role in national development through the implementation of infrastructural projects within communities across the country.