Indian, Russian firms awarded management of Sri Lanka's Matta International Airport
The Hindu
Indian and Russian firms awarded management of Sri Lanka's Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport, once dubbed world's emptiest airport
A joint venture between an Indian and a Russian firm have been awarded the management of Sri Lanka's Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport in Hambantota, the Government spokesman said on April 26.
The USD 209 million facility was once dubbed the "world's emptiest airport" due to a lack of flights.
The Sri Lankan Cabinet, which met on January 9, approved the calling of Expression of Interest by prospective parties, government spokesman and minister Bandula Gunawardena told reporters here.
Accordingly, five proposals were received, and the Cabinet appointed Consultative Committee decided to award a management contract spanning 30 years to Shaurya Aeronautics (Pvt) Ltd of India and Airports of Regions Management Company of Russia.
The Cabinet approved the proposal submitted by the minister of civil aviation and airport services, Mr. Gunawardena said.
Mattala Airport, named after former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, was one of the major infrastructure projects of Rajapaksa's nearly decade-long rule.
The project was funded through high-interest Chinese commercial loans.
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