Second int’l airport shifted to Maththala

Weeravila: Ports and Aviation Minister Chamal Rajapaksa yesterday instructed the Ports and Aviation Chairman to make necessary arrangements to shift the proposed second international airport to be constructed in Weeravila to Maththala area in the Hambantota district.

The Minister has reached this decision following a discussion with paddy field owners in Weeravila area, a media release issued by the Ports and Aviation Ministry said.

It has been revealed that paddy fields and other lands in Weeravila area cannot be cultivated due to the scheduled construction of the international airport in Weeravila area.

As highlighted by the farmer organisations, there is a possibility of several environmental problems within the area too. Having considered the situation, Minister Rajapaksa has decided to shift the second international airport to Maththala area in the Hambantota district.

The people of Weeravila have commended this decision taken by the Minister, the release added.