AN AIRPORT in St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) has reopened eight weeks after the Hurricane Beryl.
The JF Mitchell Airport in Bequia, which is part of The Grenadines, reopened on Wednesday 28 August, according to an update from Argyle International Airport.
SVG’s Prime Minister, Ralph Gonsalves provided an update to Parliament where he said the airport was more damaged than previously thought.
“It’s not accurate to say that the damage was light. I know you put the adverb ‘apparently’ before it,” Gonsalves said.
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Damage to the airport was reported by Deputy Director of Grenadines Affairs, Carlos Williams, who resides in Bequia.
Williams said he had observed minor roof damage at the airport, but the stone seawall defence had been severely compromised and requires reinforcement.
There was boulders and debris from the seawall covering the runway and surrounding areas.
The PM also noted that the airport faced significant communication challenges including a lack of internet and telephone services, which were critical for safe air traffic control operations.
An on-going investigation into the damage is ongoing with the PM emphasising the need to strengthen sea defenses to prevent similar issues in the future.
Gonsalves also said the airports in Canouan and Union Island remain closed for now, with only flights for humanitarian needs being permitted.
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Publish date : 2024-08-29 02:15:00
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