Rural airstrips must be developed and maintained, says Alotau MP Charles Abel.
Speaking to EMTV News recently, MP Abel said rural airstrips play a vital role in helping services reach rural communities.
Abel made this statement as Alotau District prepares to roll out its flying doctor service, “Hands of Rescue”.
MP Charles Abel says with the aim of bringing services to the all levels of Government, the upgrading and maintenance of rural airstrips must be the focus.
“We have airstrips which were used in colonial days, most have been neglected and left to rundown, this vital infrastructure must be upgraded and maintained because it is now the key to deliver services in rural areas of our country,” said MP Abel.
For Alotau District, the Public Private Partnership with Dr Barry Kirby will see health services rolled out in the coming weeks using the “Hands of Rescue”.
This plane will serve people on islands and inland areas of Alotau District. The primary role of the aircraft will be delivering health services, while the secondary role of the aircraft is to help transport coffee produce into town.
Alotau District is the largest district by landmass in Milne Bay province. Its scattered geography does not make it easy for the district to deliver the much needed services on time.
MP Abel says building appropriate infrastructure is the key to serve the rural people.
