The Ministry of Economic Development has awarded the development project for the Gan International Airport (GIA) to Renaatus Projects Private Limited of India.
The ministry has issued a Notification of Intention to Award to Renaatus, which won the bid for the development of GIA in Addu City. The ministry is finalizing preparations before signing the agreement and beginning fieldwork this month.
GIA is a crucial hub for the economy and social life of the southern atolls. Its lack of a modern airport is one of the major hindrances to the development of Addu and the growth of tourism in the city. The government has taken the initiative to upgrade the main gateway to the southern atolls.
The development of GIA will be funded through a line of credit from the Exim Bank of India. The project aims to serve 1.5 million passengers annually with the help of the credit extended by the bank. The project includes the construction of a new domestic terminal, control tower, and fire station, as well as the renovation of the current terminal, duty-free shops, and restaurants. Additionally, a new path to the airport will be paved and solar panels will be installed. The estimated cost of the project is USD 17 million.
