The government has officially announced a plan to upgrade the Bogura Airfield into an international-standard airport.
At the same time, it has also announced the establishment of a air force base and a flying academy at the site.
The announcement was made on Thursday at a press briefing following visit of the high officials of ministers, state ministers and the Chief of Air Staff.
During the briefing, the speakers said that initiative is being implemented under the directive of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, which aim to transform Bogura into the first international airport in northern Bangladesh.
Special emphasis is being placed on ensuring international cargo facilities for agricultural products and light engineering goods.
Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam, State Minister M
Rashiduzzaman Millat, State Minister for LGRD Mir Shahe Alam and Air
Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan were present at the site during the
visit.
State Minister for Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives (LGRD) Mir Shahe Alam said, ''A 10,500-foot runway is planned for the international-standard airport. A feasibility study for the project will begin soon.''
He added, people affected by land acquisition for the airport and air force base would receive compensation at three times the market value of their property.
Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmud Khan said that the government has granted preliminary approval for the establishment of a modern air force base there.
He also said that the government has initiated the process of procuring new fighter aircraft which are expected to be deployed at the proposed Bogura base.
