Govt set to install airfield lighting system in all airports
DODOMA: THE government has put in place a strategy to install airfield lighting system that will be in use for 24 hours at all airports countrywide.
The statement was made on Wednesday by Minister for Transport, Professor Makame Mbarawa during the inauguration of lighting system for night plane landing and flying at the Dodoma Airport.
Airfield lighting system helps to guide planes using the runways and taxiways at night or in bad weather condition. It also guides pilots to land and take off 24 hours.
“The government focus is to install lighting systems at all airports across the country to enable planes flying and landing 24 hours. With this strategy, we expect to double our income generation due to increased flights,” Prof Mbarawa said.
He said the implementation of the strategy has started in Iringa, Mtwara, Songea and Mpanda, noting that the increase in flights will upgrade per capital income and the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Detailing on the renovation of the Dodoma Airport, he said, the government injected about 8bn/- for the installation of light bulbs system capable of operating for 24 hours in rainy or summer seasons.
He said the lights bulbs will be powered by generators, electricity or solar battery.
Commenting, Dodoma Regional Commissioner, Rosemary Senyamule commended President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan for her tireless efforts in allocating required resources including funds for the airports’ improvement that will allow planes’ operation around the clock.
“I understand that Dodoma Airport’s night flights will have many passengers in comparison to that of daytime due to the fact that many people in the region prefer working during the daytime and travel at night,” she said.
Equally, Dodoma Region Chama cha Mapinduzi’s (CCM) Secretary, Ms Pili Agustino commended President, Dr Samia for demonstrating high commitment in implementing the ruling party’s 2020/2025 election manifesto which is centred on people and country development.
